Memo: External audit and discharge for the European Union’s budget

The European Court of Auditors – the Commission’s external auditor on the EU budget - on 15 November 2005 published its annual report on implementation of the EU budget for the financial year 2004. This act is one of the key reporting events in the Commission’s accounting for its use of taxpayers’ money each year to the European Parliament and to Council. These last then decide on the discharge to be given to the Commission for its management of the money. This Q&A places this report in its context and answers general questions on control and audit.

• Primary Source

European Court of Auditors: Audit reports and opinions: The Annual Reports: Annual Report concerning the financial year 2004, 15.11.05 http://eca.europa.eu/portal/pls/portal/docs/1/134057.PDF

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