The Strategic Director introduced the report and advised that subsequent to its publication, the outstanding audit action regarding the Hampshire Cultural Trust was now complete.  The outstanding audit actions regarding health and safety were also likely to be completed in the new year and this would be confirmed to committee members.

The Strategic Director responded to members’ questions on the reasons for the delay to the scheduled review of the constitution and the steps being taken to mitigate this. Regarding the Corporate Risk Register, the Director agreed that future quarterly reports could contain additional commentary regarding changes to mitigation measures and to risk status etc. 

During debate, the committee considered the risk to service delivery from impacts from Covid-19 and the latest variant and received reassurances from the Director regarding the mitigation measures in place.  Members agreed that ensuring front line council services were maintained during the pandemic was more important that compliance with the internal audit plan.

Officers were commended for their work in continuing to maintain services during the pandemic. 

RESOLVED:

1.                That the content of the report, the progress against the internal audit management actions be noted and that the cabinet member have regard to the comments raised by the committee.

2.                That having reviewed the Corporate Risk Register, as per the Risk Management Policy, and that the activity undertaken managing the corporate risks during the quarter be noted.