Code Of Practice On Local Authority Accounting In The United Kingdom 2022/23 Online

This is the digital, online version of the Code. It is also available in hard copy.

Local authorities in the UK are required to keep their accounts in accordance with ‘proper (accounting) practices’. Public sector organisations responsible for locally delivered services are required by legislation to comply with the terms of the Code of Practice on Local Authority Accounting in the United Kingdom (the Code). This 2022/23 edition of the Code has been developed by CIPFA/LASAAC and has effect for financial years commencing on or after 1 April 2022.

The Code specifies the principles and practices of accounting required to prepare financial statements which give a true and fair view of the financial position and transactions of a local authority. The Code applies to local government organisations across the UK including local authorities, police bodies, fire services and other local public service bodies.

This edition of the Code introduces a number of important amendments relating both to context and an understanding of requirements. Changes include:

• clarifying and expanding the applicability of the Code to Welsh authorities and bodies including corporate joint committees
• amendments to clarify the treatment of social benefits
• provisions which allow local authorities to account for leases in accordance with IAS 17, while also offering the option for local authorities to choose to adopt IFRS 16 on a voluntary basis. Where the latter option is taken, service concession arrangement liabilities must also be measured in accordance with the measurement requirements of IFRS 16.

The Code sets out the relevant requirements on local authority accounting including material developed as a result of an exceptional consultation which explored options which might help alleviate pressures on the timetable for publication and audit of local authority financial statements. However, preparers should be aware that further consultation has been undertaken in relation to accounting for infrastructure assets, and this may result in amendments and updates being made to this edition of the Code and potentially other earlier editions of the Code.