Agenda and minutes

An apology for absence was submitted on behalf of Mrs R Camamilewith the following substitution authorised in accordance with Council Procedure Rule 4.1:

            Mr PS Bessant for Mrs R Camamile.

To receive verbally from members any disclosures which they are required to make in accordance with the Council’s code of conduct or in pursuance of Section 106 of the Local Government Finance Act 1992.  This is in addition to the need for such disclosure to be also given when the relevant matter is reached on the Agenda.

No interests were declared at this stage.

To confirm the minutes of the meeting of the Finance Audit & Performance Committee held on  12 September 2011. 

On the motion of Mr Hall, seconded by Mr Morrell it was

RESOLVED – the minutes of the meeting held on 12 September 2011 be agreed and signed by the Chairman.

Report of RSM Tenon attached

Mr Bessant and Mr Lay entered the meeting at 6.35 pm

The Committee received the internal audit progress report presented by RSM Tenon.  Nine new audits had been undertaken and 48 recommendations made. 

Although risk management and homelessness were areas of concern it was reported that many of the issues had been addressed and recommendations implemented.   

RESOLVED – the committee endorse the report and agree a report be brought to the next meeting on the progress regarding risk management.  

Report of Deputy Chief Executive (Corporate Direction) attached.

Members were informed of the council’s treasury management activity during the half year to 30 September 2011. Members were reminded that interest rates were still low, which impacted on investment income. Councillor Bessant asked for information on the capital programme and the position going forward. 

RESOLVED – the committee note the report and a further report be brought to the next meeting outlining the position of the capital programme.

Report of Deputy Chief Executive (Corporate Direction) attached.

The committee were informed of the setting of the budget strategy for 2012/13.   Mr Lay asked if the payment for employees earning under £21,000 discussed at the last meeting had been accounted for and if anything had been agreed on this issue.  It was reported that the council was awaiting agreement with the unions on this issue.  Mr Morrell asked how many staff would benefit from this payment.  The Deputy Chief Executive (Corporate Direction) agreed to circulate the figures to members.

RESOLVED – the report be noted.

Report of Deputy Chief Executive (Corporate Direction) attached.

The committee were informed of the progress in implementing audit recommendations.  The committee found the report informative but asked that future reports be more precise on the current situation.

RESOLVED – the report be noted

A verbal report will be given at the meeting.

The Accountancy Manager gave a verbal report on progress with this contract.  He informed members that this was currently in the tender stage and due to be finalised shortly.

Attached.

Members had no comment on the current work programme.