Agenda item

Report of the Group Director of Operations.

The Cabinet Member with the Resources Portfolio introduced the report of the Group Director of Operations (previously circulated) presenting the Auditor’s Annual Report for 2021/22 (both also previously circulated).

The Auditors Annual Report provided a high level summary of the results from the 2021/22 audit work undertaken by Ernst and Young LLP (EY), the Council’s external auditors; confirmed that the Council’s accounts gave a true and fair view for the year ending 31 March 2022; and that the Council had put in place proper arrangements to secure value for money in its use of resources.

In presenting the Annual Report, a representative from Ernst and Young LLP (EY), stated that there had been a sector wide delay in signing off accounts; presented the main findings from the Annual Report; stated there were no matters to raise; and that the certificate had been signed on 12 April 2024.

Reference was made to the delay in signing off the accounts; the additional costs that had been incurred as a result; and how long it would take to clear the backlog.  The Cabinet Member with the Resources Portfolio and the representative from EY responded thereon.

RESOLVED - That the Auditor’s Annual Report 2021/22, as appended to the submitted report, be noted.

REASON – To receive the results of external audit work carried out.