New requirements for NHS audit committees

This consultation seeks views on proposals for new constitutional requirements for the audit committees of NHS Trusts and Clinical Commissioning Groups.

These proposals are designed to ensure that these audit committees are appropriately constituted to advise their governing boards on the selection, appointment and maintenance of independent relationships with external auditors from 2015 onwards, when the Audit Commission is expected to close (subject to the approval of Parliament).

The Department of Health has been working with NHS stakeholders to develop these proposals.