(a)          Decision(s)

That Council be recommended to opt in to the Appointing Person arrangements made by the Public Sector Audit Appointments (PSAA) for the appointment of external auditors.

(b)          Reason(s) for Decision(s)

A sector wide procurement conducted by the PSAA is likely to produce better outcomes for the Council than any procurement exercise undertaken by the Council itself.  Use of the PSAA will also be less resource intensive than establishing an auditor panel and the Council conducting  its own procurement.

(c)        Alternative Options Considered

To establish an auditor appointment panel with the Council conducting its own procurement.  However as mentioned above this would be much more resource intensive, and without the bulk buying power of the sector led procurement process, would be likely to result in a more costly service.

(d)       Relevant Scrutiny Committee

Finance and Services.  However, as the recommendation will be submitted to full Council, it is not subject to call-in.  (A report has also been prepared for the Audit Committee)

(e)        Conflicts of Interest / Dispensation(s)

None.