MPs call for ‘structural break-up’ of Big Four

The UK's largest accountancy firms should be split into audit and non-audit businesses, according to recommendations from a Government committee.

The Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) Committee published a report highlighting a potential conflict of interest between the audit and consultancy services offered by the Big Four.

It endorsed a previous proposal from the Competition and Markets Authority that an operational division between audit and non-audit services should be put in place, but further suggested aiming for a full structural split.

Rachel Reeves, chair of the BEIS Committee, said:

"The client relationship, and the conflicts of interest which abound, undermine the professional scepticism needed to deliver reliable, high-quality audits.

"Splitting audit from non-audit business would be a big step to boosting the culture of challenge needed to deliver high-quality audits."

The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) criticised the Committee's plan, however, arguing it "jumps the gun" with a quick solution rather than waiting for evidence.

Josh Hardie, deputy director-general of the CBI, said:

"Businesses are aware there are problems with the audit market and it is a tough challenge to fix them. High-profile corporate failures have rightly prompted searching questions.

"But the UK's position as a stable, evidence-based country is already under threat.

"So rushing to simplistic measures rather than following a clear, considered long-term approach will damage our reputation further."

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