Issue - meetings

The attached report provides an update to Audit & Governance Committee on the External Auditor’s progress to date in delivering their responsibilities. 

The report also includes a summary of emerging national issues and developments that may be relevant to the Council. 

An additional presentation covering the independent review by Sir Tony Redmond into the effectiveness of local audit and the transparency of financial reporting has also been provided.

The representatives from External Auditors, Grant Thornton, presented a report, a copy of which had been circulated to each Member and a copy of which appears as Appendix 'H' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

The reported provided an update on the External Auditor’s progress to date in delivering their responsibilities and there was reference particularly to the difficulties faced nationally in completion of audits within the context of the national pandemic.

The report included a summary of emerging national issues and developments that may be relevant to the Council and an additional presentation covering the independent review by Sir Tony Redmond into the effectiveness of local audit and the transparency of financial reporting was also provided. Grant Thornton expected that the recommendations arising out of the Report would serve to make external audit much more useful to Councils whilst maintaining a robust audit regime and driving up quality.

RESOLVED that Audit & Governance Committee notes the External Auditor’s progress to date in delivering their responsibilities and the sector update provided including the review of the Redmond Report.

Voting: Unanimous.