Councillor Alison Evison, COSLA President said: "Today’s (Thursday) report from the Accounts Commission is a timely reminder of the many and varied pressures on Local Government. However it is also worth noting that to date councils have carried out their scrutiny duties well, despite also facing increasing demands and reducing resources.

"Scotland’s councillors appreciate their role and duty in safeguarding public money and take it seriously.

"Our colleagues at the Improvement Service support councils with this through the Continuous Professional Development Framework for Elected Members and bespoke support to develop councillors’ scrutiny skills.

"COSLA and our colleagues in the Improvement Service will continue to support our member Councils look at ways to strengthen our joint work in this vital area even further."