Statement in respect of auditor's annual report

The auditor's annual report on Dorset Council for 2023/24, published for the Audit and Governance committee meeting to be held on 24 February, identifies some significant weaknesses in the council's governance and procurement arrangements. Auditors Grant Thornton have made a number of recommendations to address these issues.

As the auditor's report makes clear, it was Dorset Council that drew the attention of the auditor to the weaknesses. Dorset Council acknowledges these findings and is taking immediate action. Upon discovering potential non-compliance with contract procedure rules and the scheme of delegation,  South West Audit Partnership (SWAP) was commissioned to conduct a thorough and independent investigation. The findings and recommendations from this investigation will be presented to councillors at a future Audit and Governance meeting, expected in the next few months.

We take this matter extremely seriously, which is why we have commissioned this comprehensive investigation. Our commitment to transparency ensures that the investigation's findings will be made publicly available. Councillors will thoroughly review the recommendations and take the necessary steps to address the identified issues, ensuring good governance and accountability. 

The full report can be found on our website.