To consider a report of the Council’s External Auditor.

On behalf of the Council’s External Auditor, Tommy Rooney was in attendance to introduce the key features of the Audit Strategy Memorandum now presented for Members’ information. In discussion, it was noted that it was unlikely that the current risk assessment in relation to the OFSTEd inspection of Children’s Social Care would change pending a further assessment by the regulator. Questions were also raised regarding the input by the expert valuers appointed by the Council in respect of a range of assets, and the extent to which the auditor took an independent view of expert opinions received.

RESOLVED –That the content of the Audit Strategy Memorandum be noted.