COUNCIL auditors say they are concerned over how Hereford’s fledgling university records the money it is spending on consultants.

Herefordshire Council is the accountable organisation for funding allocated by central government to the New Model in Technology and Engineering.

Internal auditors have examined NMiTE’s grant records and say that, to the best of their knowledge, they have complied with all conditions except those regarding payments and milestones.

They say they would like to see further evidence underpinning the HM Treasury Guidance on Managing Public Money via the use of an effective control framework following value for money principles in support of effective management of public money.

“We have some concern with regard to the lack of detailed evidence supplied in support of achievement of each and every milestone cited within NMiTE Capital Grant Determination (2017/18): No 31/3151 and NMiTE Revenue Grant Determination (2017/18): No 31/3152 grant conditions and also the lack of continuity in financial reporting over the last year,” the auditors opinion read.

“Finally, we remain concerned on how spend on consultants; calculations made to monetise volunteering and partnerships and what is being raised as financial donations is being reported accurately on a monthly basis.”