Para 2.2.46 — MSO

Audit against Propriety 2.2.46 It is an essential and inherent function of Audit to bring to light not only clear and obvious irregularities but also every matter which, in its judgement, appears to involve improper expenditure or waste of public monies or stores even though the accounts themselves may be in order and no obvious irregularity has been committed. Such audit, often called Propriety Audit, "extends beyond the formality of the expenditure to its wisdom, faithfulness and economy" (Hallam). It is thus not sufficient to see that sundry rules or orders of a competent authority have been observed. It is of equal importance to see that the broad principles of orthodox finance are borne in mind not only by disbursing officers but also by sanctioning authorities.