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The 'public auditor': an experiment in effective accountability

Article Abstract:

The UK Friendly Societies Act 1875 called for all friendly societies to have their accounts audited each year by a public auditor or two nominated people. But accountants were initially reluctant to take on the role of public auditors. Some friendly societies chose to employ accountants as their public auditors whilst others persisted in using unqualified auditors. The Building Societies Act 1894 called for one of the auditors to be an accountant and by 1920 all new public auditors had to be members of the Society of Incorporated Accountants and Auditors.

Accounting, auditing, & bookkeeping, United Kingdom, History, Accountants, Auditors, British history, Fraternal organizations

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Capital accounting in municipal corporation 1884-1914: theory and practice

Article Abstract:

The Municipal Corporation Act of 1835 was established in the UK to provide a framework for municipal corporation's organisation and accountability. From 1884 to 1914, the capital expenditure of these corporations is studied with special focus on amortisations. This would provide a reference point for the evaluation of recurring problems in accountability. It was concluded that variety in accounting practices happen despite the existence of statutory laws and that this could be due to the lack of consensus on the adequacy of the said statutes.

Laws, regulations and rules, Accounting and auditing, Capital investments, Municipal corporations

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The financial reporting practices of British municipal corporations, 1835-1933: a study in accounting innovation

Article Abstract:

UK municipal corporations developed and improved accounting practices over 100 years until their abolition in 1974. Innovation did not arise as a result of pressure from ratepayers, partly because municipal accounts tended to be complex and difficult to understand. The Corporations' members and officers tended to provide the drive for innovation and this is especially true of treasurers. Professional auditors also providedadvice and helped promote change.

Analysis, Finance, Local government

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