Issue - meetings

The committee considered a report presenting the 2026/2027 External Audit Strategy

from the Councils External Auditors, KPMG.

It was explained that it was an indicative plan and was still going through the planning and risk assessment activities with a view to publishing the full audit plan,

which would come to the next committee.

The content of the strategy was outlined including the planned materiality which had been raised and the proposed audit strategy. It was considered that there were no significant issues to be aware of but any concerns arising during the year would be reported to the committee. Any significant risks had been identified in the report and these were the same as previous years. A specific report on the value for money risk assessment would be presented at the next meeting.

A member referred to the possibility of the district council coming to an end as part of Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) and asked if this was a potential future risk. In addition the issue of pensions and investments was raised.

It was clarified that LGR did not impact on the current financial statements but would be considered as part of the value for money risk assessment. The issue would then be part of reports in future years and by then further guidance would be available.

In terms of pensions it was agreed that the issue would be taken away to get further information for members. It was noted that pensions were the responsibility of the County Council but any additional information would be useful.

A members asked if there were any areas where management should consider strengthening or providing more evidence ahead of the autumn report to help speed up the process. Confirmation was given that there had been liaison with the Management Team and any information needed was being provided quickly and there were no concerns.

RESOLVED:

That the External Audit Strategy Memorandum (Plan) for 2026/2027 be approved.