encouraged to consult with independence specialists requirements. In addition to the conifrmations described whenever a matter is complex, or in the case of any above, as part of this monitoring member ifrms perform: doubt about what to do. ■ compliance testing of independence controls PwC’s processes are supported by comprehensive and processes training of partners and staff. Each member ifrm provides all partners and staff with annual or ■ personal independence compliance testing of ongoing training in independence matters. This a random selection of, at a minimum, partners, training is typically based around milestones related as a means of monitoring compliance with to a change in position or role, changes in policy or independence policies external regulation, and, as relevant, provision of services. Partners and staff receive computer-based ■ an annual assessment of the member ifrm’s training on independence policy and related topics. adherence with the PwC network’s standard Additionally, training is delivered to members of the on independence practice on an as-needed basis by independence specialists and risk and quality teams. The results of monitoring and testing are reported to the ifrm’s management on a regular basis. All partners and practice staff are required to complete an annual compliance conifrmation. This involves Each member ifrm has disciplinary policies and conifrming their compliance with relevant aspects of mechanisms in place that promote compliance with the member ifrm’s independence policy, including independence policies and processes, and require their own personal independence. In addition, all any breaches of independence requirements to be partners conifrm that all non-audit services and reported and addressed. This includes a discussion with business relationships for which they are responsible the client’s audit committee regarding the nature of a comply with policy and that the required processes breach, an evaluation of the impact of the breach on the have been followed in accepting these engagements independence of the member ifrm and the engagement and relationships. These annual conifrmations are team, and the need for actions or safeguards to maintain supplemented by periodic and ad-hoc engagement- objectivity. Although most breaches are minor and level conifrmations for certain clients. attributable to an oversight, all breaches are taken seriously and investigated as appropriate. The member Independence monitoring and disciplinary policy ifrm also follows any supplemental local requirements Each member ifrm is responsible for monitoring relating to the reporting of breaches. The investigations the effectiveness of its quality control system of any identiifed breaches of independence policies in managing compliance with independence also serve to identify the need for disciplinary measures,