Difference between signatories and counter-signature

Question

We are a small PC, and are trying to sort out new/ additional signatories which has proved very time-consuming. Is there a reason why are our clerk cannot be one of the signatories?

Answer 1

Yes it is bad practice.  The clerk / RFO should be the one to set up the payment or write the cheque and then it should be countersigned by 2 or more councillors.  This should be in your financial regulations.  Its all about transparency and the mitigation of risk through fraud, theft and mismanagement of public funds.