Which of the following are duties of auditors?

• A. Give opinion on true and fair view of accounts; establish that adequate accounting records are kept; ensure sufficient information is available for the audit
• B. Prepare the financial statements; manage the company's operations; sign off on budgets
• C. Set accounting policies; implement tax planning strategies; appoint directors
• D. Report on compliance with all laws and regulations

Answer: (A)

In auditing, the core duty is to provide assurance on the financial statements. This means forming an opinion on whether the financial statements give a true and fair view and are prepared in accordance with the applicable financial reporting framework. The auditor also relies on the entity to maintain adequate accounting records and to provide sufficient information for the audit so evidence can be gathered and procedures completed.

The option that reflects these duties states that the auditor gives an opinion on the true and fair view, ensures adequate accounting records are kept, and ensures sufficient information is available for the audit. These align with the auditor’s role: evaluating the records and information provided by management and expressing an opinion on the financial statements.

The other options describe tasks that are management or governance responsibilities, not auditor duties, such as preparing financial statements, managing operations, signing off on budgets, setting accounting policies, implementing tax planning, or appointing directors. Auditors do not perform these management functions or broad regulatory duties in this context.