Issue - meetings

Miss M Goldsmith, Directorate Finance Manager, was in attendance for this and the following item.

1.         Miss Goldsmith introduced the report and answered questions from Members.  The issues highlighted were as follows:-

a)         it would be very useful to have an Executive Summary at the start of future reports to set out the key issues before presenting more detailed information and spreadsheets.  The report which had previously been presented to Cabinet and was now presented to each POSC would still be included;

b)         virement between budget headings was a necessary tool when planning and estimating complex budgets a long way in advance. Adjustments would always be necessary, and the earliest part of the financial year tended to see the biggest adjustments; and

c)         it would be very useful for Members to be given a definition of what is meant by ‘management action’ in managing budgets.  This would include measures such as not filling vacancies.

2.         RESOLVED that:-

a)         the information set out in the report and in response to Members’ questions be noted, with thanks; and

b)         future budget monitoring reports start with an Executive Summary to set out the key issues, and the next report include a definition of what is meant by ‘management action’.