The Governance, Audit, Risk Management and Standards Committee of Harrow Council was scheduled to review a range of financial and governance reports. Key discussions were expected to include progress on audits, the corporate risk register, annual governance statements, and plans for internal audit and anti-fraud activities.

Audit Progress and Annual Reports

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on audit progress for the 2022/23 and 2023/24 financial years. This included a report detailing the work undertaken by auditors and the status of ongoing audits. Alongside this, the committee was to review the GARMS Committee Annual Report for 2023/24, which would provide an overview of the committee's activities and performance over the past year.

Governance and Risk Management

A significant item on the agenda was the Draft Annual Governance Statement for 2023/24. This statement is a crucial document that outlines the council's system of internal control and its effectiveness in achieving its objectives. The committee was also scheduled to review the Corporate Risk Register for 2024/25, which details the significant risks facing the council and the strategies in place to manage them. An update for June 2024 was to be presented.

Audit and Anti-Fraud Plans

The committee was set to consider the Internal Audit Annual Plan for 2024/25. This plan outlines the proposed audit work for the upcoming year, focusing on areas of highest risk and strategic importance to the council. Similarly, the Corporate Anti-Fraud Annual Plan for 2024/25 was scheduled for discussion, detailing the strategies and activities planned to prevent and detect fraud within the council.

Year-End Reports

The committee was to receive year-end reports for both Internal Audit and the Corporate Anti-Fraud team for the 2023/24 financial year. These reports would summarise the work completed, key findings, and any recommendations arising from the audit and anti-fraud activities during that period.

Treasury Management

The Treasury Management Annual Outturn Report for 2023/24 was also scheduled for review. This report details the council's performance in managing its financial investments and borrowings throughout the year, ensuring compliance with policies and regulations.

Other Business

The agenda also included standard procedural items such as noting the attendance of reserve members, receiving declarations of interest, and considering any public questions, petitions, or deputations. The committee was also scheduled to consider the appointment of a Vice-Chair for the Municipal Year 2024-2025. Any other urgent business that could not be dealt with under other agenda items was also to be considered.