We Trigger Auditor Investigation Into Mendip Council "Openness and Transparency"

 

Somerset Lib Dems Hiding YOUR Money

For many months now, Members of Somerset Independents have been investigating the finances of Mendip District Council, which is controlled by the Liberal Democrats.

We have publicly expressed our concern about the finances of this Council, and its governance. Our members have taken action to expose the state of the Council. On many occasions and in different ways, members and supporters have contacted the Council to express our concerns.

Following our extensive research, questions and investigations, we formally objected to the Council's accounts.

Denise Wyatt, expert in Local Government governance, was the lead objector. She explains:

 

Denise Wyatt, Member of Somerset Independents

"Mendip District Council as with all councils is required to appoint auditors to audit their accounts.

When a council publishes its accounts, residents have the right to ask questions on them and make objection to the external auditor. Mendip Council appointed Ernst & Young as its auditor.

There were a number of financial and procedural matters that we objected to. One was regarding Mendip Council's political blindness and hidden decision-making process regarding the purchase of commercial investment property.

The External Auditor advised us today that Mendip Council's decision-making process:

'on the face of the information provided identifies a matter in relation to which a public interest report could be warranted'.

The Objection has passed Stage 1 and Stage 2 and has entered Stage 3 of the process. 

The Auditors, in looking at our objection, have said that on the evidence that we have provided that they need to investigate further whether Mendip Council lacked transparency and openness in its decision making process, for investment of property. 

Ernst & Young are now investigating this matter further and are asking the Council more questions."

 

Leader of Somerset Independents, Andrew Pope says:

Andrew Pope, Leader of Somerset Independents

"Somerset Independents will continue to stand up for residents and taxpayers and to expose the Liberal Democrats, Greens and Tory councillors on Mendip District Council for what they are - incompetent and obstructive. This is another reason why it is only reasonable to conclude, and the evidence points to it, that Mendip District Council is corrupt."

 

Standing Up For Mendip's Residents