Decision details

The Leader of the Council submitted a report detailing proposals for taking forward the 2013/14 Annual Governance Statement. 

The Manager of Corporate Risk advised that a self assessment of the Council’s counter-fraud arrangements had been undertaken, the detail of which was set out in the Essential Reference Paper.  It was noted that the results of the self-assessment had been very positive and had been reported to Corporate Management Team

The Manager of Corporate Risk summarised the consultation process being undertaken prior to final approval of the Annual Governance Statement at the next Audit Committee.  Members were invited to submit input towards the Annual Governance Statement alongside those issues already identified.

In response to a query from Councillor R Sharma regarding housing benefit and interaction with housing associations, the Director of Finance and Support Services explained that it was for Housing Associations to identify any fraud and take action.  She assured the Member that there was regular dialogue with housing associations to discuss a range of issues.

The Committee received the report.

RESOLVED – that (A) the Annual Governance Statement be used as a basis for wider consultation;

(B)                the process for taking forward the 2013/14 Annual Governance statement be approved; and

(C)      the comments made within the self assessment document “Protecting the Public Purse” be supported.