§ Lord Lairdasked Her Majesty's Government:
What is the process by which members of the public have access to the detailed accounts and the processes of local authorities in England and Wales. [HL5625]
§ Lord RookerThe Accounts and Audit Regulations 1996 provide for local authorities to make their annual accounts and other documents available for public inspection for fifteen working days. Authorities must advertise the availability of the accounts for inspection at least 14 days before the commencement of the inspection period. After the end of the time allowed for inspection, electors can exercise their rights to object to the auditor on matters relating to the accounts. We plan to consult later this year on proposals to amend the Accounts and Audit Regulations, which may include the possibility of changes to the arrangements by which accounts are made available for public inspection.