Agenda item

Report of KPMG

9.1       Matt Ackroyd, Manager, KPMG, introduced a report outlining the External Audit Plan for 2017/18.

9.2       Mr Ackroyd reported that KPMG had identified a number of significant audit risks in relation to the financial statement. As a result of reductions in central government funding and other pressures, the authority was continuing to have to make significant savings. The authority also continued to experience overspends and cost pressures within its Adult and Children’s Services.

9.3       Mr Ackroyd also outlined that the timetable for the production of the financial statements had been significantly advanced to 31 July.  KPMG would work with the authority to understand the steps being taken to meet the deadlines and of the impact on their work. 

9.4       Members of the Committee stated that it would be a concern if the accounts were rushed to meet the advanced deadline and that accuracy was more important over speed.

9.5         The Committee were also advised that two objections had been received in relation to the Council’s 2016/17 accounts. KPMG had formulated their draft view on the first objection and were awaiting comments from the objector. KPMG were also waiting for national legal advice to be released by the NAO on the second objection.

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9.6       RESOLVED: That the Committee notes the External Audit Plan 2017/18.