In this Insights In Focus episode, we discuss the effectiveness of local authority audit and assurance. Many local authorities are facing a difficult financial situation, with pressure to deliver services at a time of stretched resources. There are also questions regarding the timely delivery and usefulness of their audited accounts – and whether councillors require financial training to support decision making. Host Philippa Lamb discusses the issues with Meg Hillier MP, Chair of the Public Accounts Committee; James Jamieson, Chair of the Local Government Association; and Alison Ring, Director of Public Sector and Taxation at ICAEW. Links ICAEW public sector hub: https://www.icaew.com/technical/public-sectorICAEW Public Sector Community: https://www.icaew.com/groups-and-networks/communities/public-sectorICAEW vision for local audit: https://www.icaew.com/technical/public-sector/public-sector-audit-and-assurance/uk-public-sector-audit/icaew-vision-for-local-auditLevelling Up, Housing and Communities Committee: Financial Reporting and Audit in Local Authorities inquiry: https://committees.parliament.uk/work/7348/financial-reporting-and-audit-in-local-authorities/ Host Philippa LambGuests Meg Hillier MP, Chair, Public Accounts Committee James Jamieson, Chair, Local Government AssociationAlison Ring, Director, Public Sector and Taxation, ICAEWProducer Natalie Chisholm Episode first published: 3 April 2023 Podcast recorded: 24 March 2023