AN objection has been filed to the compilation of Thurrock Council's annual audit – which is already behind schedule.

At a meeting of the council's standards and audit committee members were given a verbal briefing on the progress – or in part lack of it – on preparing the council's annual financial report.

The finances of the council, including its massive borrowing, have been the subject of much debate, controversy and media reporting – though the council has defended itself against any accusations of wrongdoing and has put a blanket of secrecy over much of its financial affairs.

The authority is currently fighting a legal battle objecting to a ruling that it has to give out more details of its financial affairs made by a High Court judge. That is not expected to have an outcome until at least the year end.

At the audit Committee meeting Rachel Brittain a director of auditors BDO UK LLP told members she has taken over managing the council's audit – and revealed that a formal objection to the council's financial statement has been received, though she gave no details.

However, she said that regardless of that - though she will have to 'fulfil her responsibilities in that regard' - it was still hoped that the audit of the council accounts would be completed by 30 November this year.

You can view Ms Brittain's report via this link, item 5.