We are very supportive of the overhaul of the local audit system. The government set out its approach to local audit in its Strategy for Local Audit Reform in December 2024 and provided further details in the outcome to its consultation published in April 2025.
The passing of the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill on 29 April 2026 includes the establishment of the Local Audit Office (LAO) to oversee and coordinate the local audit system in England, as part of MHCLG’s strategy to reform the local audit system.
Our e-bulletins provide details of recent developments.