The Director of Finance reported that the preparation and publication of an Annual Governance Statement was necessary to meet the statutory requirement set out in the Accounts and Audit Regulations 2006. He commented that the CIPFA/SOLACE Delivering Good Governance Framework provided a structure to assist local authorities with their approach to governance and the Director set out the six core principles contained within the Framework that were required to be considered when defining good practice. He presented for consideration the Annual Governance Statement for 2008/2009, which included detailed comment regarding the effectiveness of the governance arrangements in operation and he indicated that after being signed by the Chief Executive and Leader of the Council it would be included with the Statement of Accounts.

Resolved – That the Annual Governance Statement for 2008/09 be approved for inclusion with the Financial Statements and be signed by the Chief Executive and the Leader of the Council.