Independence is freedom from situations and relationships which make it
probable that a reasonable and informed third party would conclude that
objectivity either is impaired or could be impaired. Independence is related to
and underpins objectivity. However, whereas objectivity is a personal
behavioural characteristic concerning the auditor’s state of mind,
independence relates to the circumstances surrounding the audit, including
the financial, employment, business and personal relationships between the
auditor and the audited entity and its connected parties. Relationships with
parties whose interests may be contrary to the interests of the audited entity
(for example, a hostile bidder) may also be relevant to the appearance of the
auditor’s independence.