The effectiveness of the audit process was evaluated through a committee
review and a survey of employees in the group’s finance function. The
2013 evaluations concluded that there was a good quality audit process
and that the external auditors were regarded as knowledgeable and
capable, with an ability to challenge the BP team constructively and to
ensure balanced reporting. There was also support for the independence
of the external auditors and feedback that they should continue sharing
good industry practice.
The committee held private meetings with the external auditors during the
year and the committee chair met privately with the external auditor before
each meeting.