Agenda and minutes

To approve and sign the minutes of the meeting held on

It was proposed by Councillor Morgan and seconded by Councillor Jackman that the minutes of the previous meeting were agreed as a correct record and signed by the chair.

Resolved

That the minutes of the previous meeting be signed by the chair.

Verbal Update

The Strata Compliance and Security Manager provided the briefing on Cybersecurity. The Chair suggested that cybersecurity training should be offered to all members, which the committee agreed with.

Discussion included the Committee having sight of Teignbridge’s Public Sector Network security certificate for assurance, as well as avoiding QR code hacks.

Verbal Update

The Audit Manager introduced the item. It was suggested that the Committee request that the Leader and Chief Executive write to MPs and the ESA about Audit Concerns. Other discussion included the external audit fee, the original audit parameters and that Grant Thornton would send a representative to the next committee meeting.

The Committee noted the current timetable for external audit.

The Audit Manager provided the Internal Audit Plan Update. The discussion included the current operating model consisting of a mixed provision service with the Devon Audit Partnership, risk assessment follow ups, funding for the audit team, and an overview of the progress of the audit plan.

Resolved

That the update be noted.

The Audit Manager introduced the item to the Committee. The Chair suggested that the ideal candidate would be from a local government and financial background and that advertising focus there. The Committee discussed the ideal candidate, interview plan, and role description.

It was proposed by Cllr Morgan and seconded by Cllr Williams that the Audit Scrutiny Committee recommend to Full Council the appointment of Independent co-opted member(s).

Resolved

That the Audit Scrutiny Committee recommend to Full Council the appointment of Independent co-opted member(s).

The Audit Manager introduced the item to the Committee. The Committee discussed the appointment of the Interim Business Manager. This included information discussed with the Head of Place and Commercial Services. The Committee noted that the pay provided to the Interim Business Manager was competitive. The Housing Needs Lead also provided information on the Waivers she had brought to the Committee.

Resolved

That the Committee note the Financial Instructions Waivers.