A government report is to call on audit committees to adopt a more confrontational approach to management.

The report by Sir Robert Smith, the chairman of engineering company, Weir Group, will demand improved status for audit committees and an increased role in protecting shareholders.

The report, due to be published on Monday was commissioned by the government to improve corporate governance.

A report spokesman said: "If things go wrong, the audit committee also has a role in ensuring that they are put right.

"This can put the committee into an adversarial relationship with both the external auditors and the executive, and audit committees must be ready to accept that role if necessary."

The 2025 Insurance Times Awards took place on the evening of Wednesday 3rd December in the iconic Great Room of London’s Grosvenor House.

Hosted by comedian and actor Tom Allen, 34 Gold, 23 Silver and 22 Bronze awards were handed out across an amazing 34 categories recognising brilliance and innovation right across the breadth of UK general insurance.
Many congratulations to all the worthy winners and as always, huge thanks to our sponsors for their support and our judges for their expertise.