West Midlands Police Authority has a statutory requirement to set the annual police budget and monitor its expenditure. We also set the policing element of the council tax precept.

The day to day finances of the force are delegated to the Chief Constable. The Police Authority works closely with the Chief Constable and his Director of Finance to oversee how the money is spent.

The Authority is required by section 151 of the Local Government Act 1972 to have an officer who is responsible for the administration of its financial affairs. The Authority employs a Treasurer to fulfil this function. He provides financial advice to members and recommends a budget strategy to the Authority.

By law the budget and local council tax precept have to be agreed upon by the end of February. These decisions are made at the February meeting of the Police Authority.

Annual Audit Letter

West Midlands Police Authority is required by law to have their accounts annually audited by the Audit Commission. The audit results in an Annual Audit Letter which comments on their findings and conclusions and makes recommendations for the future.

Financial Regulations

The Financial Regulations are the formal rules written by the Authority to establish financial responsibilities; confer duties, rights and powers upon the Authority, the Chief Constable and the Authority's officers.