Issue - meetings

To note the commercial relationship between BDO LLP and Spelthorne Borough Council and consider their independence as auditor to the Council.

Deputy Chief Executive Collier outlined the commercial relationship between the external auditors, BDO LLP, and Spelthorne Borough Council following the Council’s acquisition of Thames Tower, Reading.  BDO have a number of offices and the terms of the lease for this particular office had been agreed with the previous owner of the premises.

A letter from BDO confirming that their Ethical Partner had considered the situation and concluded that it did not present a threat to their independence and objectivity was considered by the Committee.

The Committee noted the relationship and were agreed that it did not compromise the independence of the auditor.