Bob Blackman
Main Page: Bob Blackman (Conservative - Harrow East)(14 years, 3 months ago)
Commons ChamberRead Full debate Read Hansard Text
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Mr Pickles
Given that 30% of all audit functions in public bodies are now in the private sector, I suspect that it will make no difference.
Bob Blackman (Harrow East) (Con)
I am very pleased to hear the Secretary of State’s announcement. I am also pleased to hear that these contracts will be rotated. However, one of the things we will all want to see is vigour in the process and expertise built up. What regulation or guidance will be issued on the length of contracts to ensure not only that a cosy arrangement does not grow up between auditors, but that expertise can be built up to speed up the process and reduce costs?
Mr Pickles
My hon. Friend is quite right to wish to ensure that there is a rigorous regime. He is also right to warn about the consequences of auditors remaining within a particular local authority for too long; it is always important to have a fresh eye. We will be looking to the National Audit Office and the professions to build up a very rigorous regime that will last and will pass the test of time.