Annual Governance Statement 2012/13

Decision

To approve and sign the Annual Governance Statement for 2012/13

Decision Summary

The Police and Crime Commissioner approved the Corporate Governance Framework and Scheme of Governance in December 2012. The governance process is overseen by the (Interim) Joint Audit Committee which has a responsibility to ensure, and report on, compliance with the scheme.

The Annual Governance Statement (AGS) is an important document in that it shows that governance arrangements are reviewed and improvements agreed, thus demonstrating to users and stakeholders how better governance assists the delivery of better quality services.

The production of the full AGS meets the requirements of the Accounts and Audit Regulations 2011 to review the arrangements for, and approve a statement in accordance with proper practices in relation to, internal control.

In November 2012, the Interim Joint Audit Committee approved an Interim (Joint) Governance Statement covering the period 1 April 2012 to 21 November 2012 (the date of the abolition of the Police Authority).

For 2012/13, separate Annual Governance Statements have been prepared by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner and the Constabulary.

No significant control issues have been identified by auditors or other review processes. However, section 5 of the AGS refers to some areas identified for improvement.

The AGS was approved by the Interim Joint Audit Committee on 17 June. When agreed, it should be signed by the Commissioner and the Chief Executive.

The AGS for the Constabulary was also approved by the Interim Joint Audit Committee on 17 June and will be signed by the Chief Constable and the Chief Finance Officer (Constabulary).

The Annual Governance Statement (AGS) must be published alongside the 2012/13 Statement of Accounts.