The Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Corporate Services presented a report which provided the Cabinet with an update on the changes to the Audit Commission’s approach to assessing the performance of partnerships and other public bodies, including local authorities.  It also provided some early responses to the consultation on the comprehensive area assessment (CAA) methodology.

Resolved – That

(1)  the proposed changes following from the introduction of comprehensive area assessment and the pilot of the CAA self-evaluation toolkit be noted;

(2)  an improvement plan be brought back to cabinet that integrates the area assessment,  use of resources and managing performance elements on the assessment; and

(3)  the interim position on the consultation be noted and the Leader of the Council, in liaison with the Deputy Leader approve the final consultation response under delegated authority.