Governance
Councils are strengthening internal governance and audit functions while addressing identified weaknesses in financial management and oversight.
Richmond upon Thames Council's Audit, Standards and Statutory Accounts Committee is broadening its focus to include standards and governance, as highlighted in October 2026. In March 2026, Islington Council's Audit and Risk Committee approved its 2026/27 Internal Audit plan, designed to support effective governance and internal control. Tower Hamlets Council's Audit Committee also approved a revised corporate code of governance in March 2026, pending Secretary of State directions.
In July 2026, an audit of Tower Hamlets Council's schools revealed significant governance gaps, including inadequate terms of reference and inconsistent interest declarations. Kingston Council's Chief Audit Executive described risk management as "reasonable" in June 2026, prompting committee questions about assurance levels. Lambeth Council's internal audit in March 2026 highlighted concerns regarding governance and financial management in de-federated schools.
The Sutton Audit and Governance Committee is scheduled to meet on 22 October 2026, with the Sutton Pension Board meeting on 29 October 2026. Hillingdon Cabinet meets on 22 October 2026 and Newham Overview and Scrutiny Committee on 27 October 2026. Earlier, in December 2025, Tower Hamlets Council's external auditor found "significant weaknesses" in its governance and financial management.
Key facts
- Richmond upon Thames Council's Audit, Standards and Statutory Accounts Committee is broadening its focus to include standards and governance, as highlighted in October 2026. Source
- In July 2026, an audit of Tower Hamlets Council's schools revealed significant gaps in governance, with two schools receiving a limited assurance opinion. Source
- Kingston Council's Chief Audit Executive stated in June 2026 that the council has reasonable risk management, internal control, and governance arrangements. Source
- Tower Hamlets Council's Audit Committee approved a revised corporate code of governance in March 2026, contingent on potential future directions from the Secretary of State. Source
- In December 2025, Tower Hamlets Council's external auditor found "significant weaknesses" in its governance and financial management. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 21 October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.