SPA CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S REPORT

Members considered the report which detailed activities involving SPA corporate staff since the previous Authority Meeting. LBrown highlighted a number of key points as detailed in the paper.

In discussion the following matters were raised:
• Members sought further comment on the timescales for the upcoming Best Value audit and what engagement has taken place. LBrown responded that HMCIS and Audit Scotland have confirmed the areas they will look at and HMICS have confirmed that a Terms of Reference will be received in April. CCFarrell added Police Scotland welcome the inspection and they intend to present a lot of evidence and will welcome the findings and areas of improvement. DCCSpeirs confirmed 8 theme leads had been identified and the next step is for theme leads to present their evaluation for Senior Executive agreement. He told Members that a small Best Value team have been established who are adding value.
• Clarity was sought on how SPA will manage capacity and capability of Authority Members in the period following several retirements. LBrown noted that the approvals taken at Item 3 will help in the interim and there will be an expectation that Members will focus on core governance issues. Should any time pressures arise, LBrown may speak to Scottish Government to enquire if more days can be provided, however Scottish Government have been in contact with SPA regarding recruitment timelines which have been positive.

Members noted the report.