Issue - meetings

To consider a report of the Chair of the Audit Committee.

The Chair of the Audit Committee (Councillor John Taylor) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) detailing a proposal to appoint an independent co-opted member to the Audit Committee.

RESOLVED – That approval be given to the appointment of an independent co-opted member to the Audit Committee.

To consider a Report of the Deputy Chief Executive (and Section 151 Officer)

The report provides details of the recent consultation by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government on the following proposals as part of the government’s response to the Redmond Review:

·         A new system leader for the local audit framework.

·         Proposals to strengthen audit committee arrangements within councils.

·         Measures to address ongoing capacity issues on the pipeline of local auditors.

·         Action to further consider local audit functions for smaller bodies.

Audit Committee is requested to approve the appointment of an independent member to the Committee (prior to approval by Full Council).

Officer contact John Pearsall on telephone number 0161 474 4033 or email john.pearsall@stockport.gov.uk

The Deputy Chief Executive (and Section 151 Officer) submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) which provided details of the recent consultation by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government on the following proposals as part of the government’s response to the Redmond Review:

·         A new system leader for the local audit framework.

·         Proposals to strengthen audit committee arrangements within councils.

·         Measures to address ongoing capacity issues on the pipeline of local auditors.

·         Action to further consider local audit functions for smaller bodies.

The following comments were made/issues raised:

·         Members queried how the independent person would be supported in the role?  In addition, were there likely to be sufficient candidates wanting to take on the role?  In response, the Committee was advised that the key was to show the transparency and independence of that member of the Committee and the eligibility criteria was designed to reflect this.

RESOLVED – (i) That the report be noted.

·         (ii) That the appointment of an independent member to the Audit Committee (prior to approval by Full Council) be approved.