Arrrgh trying to register at the GP's surgery

[Terpe]

I had no problems registering my wife and her daughter nearly 3 years ago now! I notice "rottie" said she was the "duty reception manager" and NOT the practice manager. I would return to or phone and ask to speak to the practice manager outlining the problem you had. That should do the trick!

I'd agree with this.
The problem is that the NHS has a duty to ensure eligibility of free treatment, but many people at the sharp end just don't know how to implement that. Probably never had any training.
The Practice Manager should really ensure that folks are given some awareness training or at least add a simple procedure to their operations manual/quality manual.

Sorry to hear you had those problems Iani, I know how upsetting it can be all round when you're faced with such a challenge.