[Mad Mick]

Quote "Erm no - That would be your job as the account holder.."

My point exactly. And when I check my account - which incidentally I don't have time to do daily - if there aren't sufficient funds it will take at least three days to get them there.
If I'm the only one that can check the funds are there, I'm the only one who can take money from my account. or put another way - I give my money, no one takes it!
but if you're happy letting people take uncontrolled amounts from your account Whistled - you go for it. I expect you're probably comfortable buying things over the phone and give out your card number and full details including cvv number. When some unscrupulous sort from a call centre is flogging the details in pubs you may see the weakness in our so called secured banking system - and no, the banks won't refund the money if you knowingly gave out your details.

Direct debit is for the convenience of the banks and companies - not the people who's money it is.