Mark Niblock, Chief Internal Auditor, introduced his report that summarised the Internal Audit Service plans and completed audits to review all relevant areas of risk. The report informed that the audit reports, including recommendations produced following audits are presented to managers. Members noted that a summary report was produced annually by the Chief Internal Auditor and an overall opinion provided as to the effectiveness of the Council’s control environment.

The report presented the Chief Internal Auditors Annual Report for 2019/20 that informed that the Accounts and Audit Regulations required that a local authority “shall maintain an adequate and effective system of internal audit”. The Audit and Risk Management Committee noted that in order to meet the statutory requirements the Internal Audit Section had conducted audits to review the operation of the internal control systems. The work had been conducted in accordance with Public Sector Internal Auditing Standards set by the Audit Practices Board, CIPFA and the Chartered Institute of Internal Auditors.

The Chief Internal Auditors Annual Report specified the Internal Audit assurance opinion on key areas of the Council’s activity for 2019/20.

Members further noted that the audits conducted during the year were principally planned to review the financial control systems in compliance with the requirements of the Accounts and Audit Regulations. However significant attention had also ben paid to address key risks in the following areas:

·  Performance Management,

·  Counter Fraud and Corruption

·  Corporate Governance,

·  Risk Management,

·  ICT Systems,

·  Service Delivery.

Members questioned the Chief Internal Auditor on his report, and the Director responded accordingly.

The Chair expressed the support of the Audit and Risk Management Committee to the Internal Auditor going forward.

RESOLVED – That the report be noted.