Issue - meetings

To consider a report of the Director of Corporate Operations outlining the annual report and opinion of the Chief Internal Auditor regarding the County Council’s framework of risk management, internal control and governance.

The Committee received a report of the Director of Corporate Operations outlining the annual report and opinion of the Chief Internal Auditor regarding the County Council’s framework of risk management, internal control and governance.

Members heard that only 24% of reviews had resulted in limited or no assurance. A comprehensive action plan was in place to address these, which was already well progressed, and the Head of Internal Audit would continue to monitor all actions until they reached full completion. It was noted that outcomes would be reported to future meetings.

In response to members questions it was heard that:

·         In an organisation the size of Hampshire County Council, it was expected some reviews would result in limited or no assurance and demonstrated that the internal audit function was being used appropriately by the organisation. 

·         Regular contract management reviews were undertaken, with a random selection of contracts audited to ascertain how well they were performing and being managed by the council. If any concerns were identified this would result in a limited assurance outcome and be reported to the committee.

RESOLVED:

That the Audit Committee approves the Annual Internal Audit Report & Opinion 2021-22