The Chief Internal Auditor introduced his report that updated Members on the activities of the Counter Fraud Team within Internal Audit. The report covered the year 2015/16 and current year to date.

The Chief Internal Auditor ‘s report informed that although the Counter Fraud Team had worked closely and collaboratively with the Fraud Investigation Team within Revenues and Benefits, the majority of whom had now transferred to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), his report did not include the extensive specialist activities of their work which was reported to Members separately.

The Audit and Risk Management Committee was advised of the work of the Counter Fraud Team, its continued chairing and co-ordination of the Mersey Regional Fraud Group (MRFG). Members were also advised of the activities and appropriate actions undertaken to address the risk of fraud and actions taken to prosecute perpetrators, recover losses and improve financial controls respectively. 

The Chair expressed Members’ thanks to the Officer and their continued support of the work undertaken by his team.

Resolved - That the report be noted.