Issue - meetings

Report of the Head of Finance

The committee received a report of the Head of Finance regarding the external auditor appointments.

The Head of Finance explained that the council had been invited to join a national scheme for the appointment of auditors which would be a five year appointment.  This was the same process that had been followed when Ernst and Young were appointed in 2018/19.  The officer’s view was that an appointment of an auditor through the scheme would be able to offer better value.  The decision to opt in to the scheme would be taken by full Council.

In response to members’ questions, the Head of Finance explained that the council did not have a direct contract with the auditors and therefore there was no ability under procurement legislation to extend the contract.  There was an option to go directly, however that involved the formation of panels and complex governance arrangements which would not be cost effective.

RESOLVED –

that the report is noted.