Councillor John Hardie

The Governance and Audit Committee of West Yorkshire Combined Authority received the Draft Annual Governance Statement 2025/26 for information and comment on 02/07/2026. The committee requested that consideration be given to including a glossary of terms with future versions of the Governance Statement and associated improvement plans.

The Governance & Audit Committee approved the minutes of its meeting held on 30 January 2026 as a correct record. Members requested an update on access to and consideration of the PricewaterhouseCoopers’ External Readiness Review at the next meeting.

The Governance & Audit Committee of West Yorkshire Combined Authority noted the Data Protection Officer Report on 02 July 2026. The committee was updated on data protection management and assurance, including the appointment of a new Data Protection Officer and two complaints received from the Information Commissioner's Office. Actions to address criteria not meeting ICO expectations include refreshing the Data Protection Impact Assessment template, ensuring IG policies have appropriate document control, and mirroring Procurement Act 2023 changes in IG processes.

The Governance & Audit Committee approved the minutes of its meeting held on 30 January 2026. Members requested an update on access to and consideration of the PricewaterhouseCoopers’ External Readiness Review at the next meeting.

The Governance & Audit Committee of West Yorkshire Combined Authority approved the Audit Plan for 2026/27 on 02 July 2026. The plan includes audits for financial systems, due diligence, statutory reporting, contract management, and various directorate functions.