A report by the Director of Resources that was presented by Mr Peter Wallach, Head of Merseyside Pension Fund summarised Merseyside Pension Funds Annual Report and Accounts 2020/21 and letter of representation.

Members were advised that accounts had been prepared and subjected to internal audit on 1 July 2021 and the external auditors have indicated that there will be an unqualified opinion. Members were informed that the audit work had identified an adjustment to the financial statements’ financial position, due to more up to date information being available during the course of the audit.

It was reported that the Audit Option would be issued following final completion of the audit, consideration of the Audit Findings Report and approval of the amended Statement of Accounts at both the Pensions Committee and the Audit and Risk Management Committee and that subject to this, the accounts would form the basis of the Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2021.

It was moved by the Chair and formally seconded by Councillor C Povall and:

Resolved That:

1)  The Pensions Committee approve the audited Statement of Accounts for 2020/21 and consider the amendments to the accounts, the Audit Findings Report and the Letter of Representation;

2)  The Pensions Committee refer the recommendations above to the Audit and Risk Management Committee; and

3)  the Pensions Committee approve the Annual Report of the Merseyside Pension Fund for 2020/21 for publication.