In response to the news that commissioners are being sent into Woking Borough Council, CIFPA CEO Rob Whiteman said:
“Today’s ministerial statement quotes the recent external assurance review, which found that Woking Borough Council has ‘no realistic route to returning to financial sustainability alone’.
“The risks associated with borrowing on such a disproportionate scale have come back to haunt Woking. Clearly, the controls put in place by the Prudential Code were not followed.
“CIPFA Council member Carol Culley is an experienced and trusted pair of hands from highly regarded Manchester City Council, and I have every faith that she and the other commissioners will provide sound advice on next steps.
“The impact of this council’s conduct will have serious implications for the sector as a whole. Many difficult conversations will be happening at Woking and in central government, and CIPFA will assist where we can.”
Notes to editor:
For more information please email the CIPFA press desk at viv.russell@cipfa.org.
About CIPFA:
CIPFA is a global professional body, operating at local, national and international level. As a global leader in public financial management and governance, our aim is to make a difference to the world we live in.
Our work enables people to prosper, protects the vulnerable and helps sustain the environment for future generations. We’re committed to changing lives for the better.
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