Why does EBAY need my N.I number for a Business account?

[eastring0]

I am a verified EBAY Business account, VAT registered.

Why does EBAY need my National Insurance number, the way I understood this is a requirement for personal accounts? EBAY is now saying they will withhold payments to my account...

Are other EBAY Business account holders been asked for this information?

[plum993]

It's part of HMRC law and being discussed on the discussion board here,Has any body else been switched off since giving e... - UK eBay Community 

[papso22]

the way I understood this is a requirement for personal accounts

You misunderstood, it's a requirement for all accounts, business and personal, where the legal entity is an individual.