Following publication of the Government’s English Devolution White Paper on 16 December 2024, a consultation was launched setting out proposals for overhauling the local audit system in England. The consultation was called “Local audit reform: a strategy for overhauling the local audit system in England” and closes for responses on 29 January 2025. 

The consultation set out a strategy to improve the local audit system and included, at paragraph 77, a proposal for decoupling of the pension fund accounts from the main accounts of the administering authority – something which the Board has recommended for some time. The Board welcomed the Government’s commitment set out in this proposal and has sent this response to the consultation