Lead Member: Councillor Roger Evans – Portfolio Holder for Finance

Lead Officer: Duncan Whitfield – Interim Executive Director (S151)

REPORT TO FOLLOW

RESOLVED:

That Cabinet considered the position presented in this report and including the following actions:

·       Agreed that the Section 151 officer will prepare a proposal for the 2027/28 budget to create a corporate fraud team, dependent on an appropriate budget being identified.

·       Noted the current arrangements for the management of counter fraud activity and fraud related investigations

The Portfolio Holder for Finance introduced the report which outlined options for the delivery of counter?fraud activity. Reference was made to earlier discussion during Members’ Questions and to the council’s current financial position.

It was emphasised that audit and counter?fraud arrangements should remain officer?led and not subject to political interference.

Members discussed the current absence of a dedicated counter?fraud team, noting that fraud?related activity is currently undertaken across the organisation, including through internal audit. However, work was underway to prepare for the establishment of a dedicated counter?fraud function, including identifying areas of risk and ensuring appropriate governance, authority and constitutional arrangements are in place. It was acknowledged that this must be properly resourced, authorised and sustainable, taking account of the council’s financial constraints.

The importance of contract management and procurement controls in reducing fraud risk was highlighted.

RESOLVED:

That Cabinet considered the position presented in this report and including the following actions:

·       Agreed that the Section 151 officer will prepare a proposal for the 2027/28 budget to create a corporate fraud team, dependent on an appropriate budget being identified.

·       Noted the current arrangements for the management of counter fraud activity and fraud related investigations