The Government has called on council workers to give their views to an independent review on the quality of the financial reporting of local authorities in England.

The review, launched in July, will look into the effectiveness of local authority financial reporting and the audit regime, and will examine whether the information provided by councils helps scrutiny by taxpayers and the press.

Led by the former president of the Chartered Institute of Public Finance Sir Tony Redmond, the review is now encouraging practitioners who work in the local government sector, the audit community, and others, to submit their response to an open set of questions.

‘This call for evidence is a key part of my review of the effectiveness of audit in local authorities and the transparency of their financial reporting,’ said Sir Tony.

‘I will look to test the assurance processes in place with regard to value for money arrangements together with the financial resilience in local councils.

‘I am keen to hear from practitioners as well as the audit community, and will consider all information as I formulate my report to the secretary of state.’

Local government minister Luke Hall MP commented: ‘It’s important that local authorities are held financially accountable to reinforce public confidence and deliver value for money for taxpayers.

‘That’s why the independent review being carried out by Sir Tony Redmond, to ensure a robust local audit system, is so vital. I encourage all interested parties to submit evidence to help inform the review’s recommendations.’