Form of Written Representations (Ref: Pa

Form of Written Representations (Ref: Para. 15)

1. Written representations are required to be included in a representation letter addressed to the auditor. In some jurisdictions, however, management may be required by law or regulation to make a written public statement about its responsibilities. Although such a statement is a representation to the users of the financial report, or to relevant authorities, the auditor may determine that it is an appropriate form of written representation in respect of some or all of the representations required by paragraph 10 or 11. Consequently, the relevant matters covered by such a statement need not be included in the representation letter. Factors that may affect the auditor’s determination include:

• Whether the statement includes confirmation of the fulfilment of the responsibilities referred to in paragraphs 10 and 11.
• Whether the statement has been given or approved by those from whom the auditor requests the relevant written representations.
• Whether a copy of the statement is provided to the auditor as near as practicable to, but not after, the date of the auditor’s report on the financial report (see paragraph 14).

1. A formal statement of compliance with law or regulation, or of approval of the financial report, would not contain sufficient information for the auditor to be satisfied that all necessary representations have been consciously made. The expression of management’s responsibilities in law or regulation is also not a substitute for the requested written representations.
2. Appendix 2 provides an illustrative example of a representation letter.