(a) In agreeing the terms of an audit engagement, the auditor is required to agree the basis on which the audit is to be carried out. This involves establishing whether the preconditions for an audit are present and confirming that there is a common understanding between the auditor and management of the terms of the engagement. Required: Describe the process the auditor should undertake to assess whether the PRECONDITIONS for an audit are present. (3 marks) (b) List FOUR examples of matters the auditor may consider when obtaining an understanding of the entity. (2 marks) (c) You are the audit senior of White & Co and are planning the audit of Redsmith Co for the year ended 30 September 2010. The company produces printers and has been a client of your firm for two years; your audit manager has already had a planning meeting with the finance director. He has provided you with the following notes of his meeting and financial statement extracts. Redsmith’s management were disappointed with the 2009 results and so in 2010 undertook a number of strategies to improve the trading results. This included the introduction of a generous sales-related bonus scheme for their salesmen and a high profile advertising campaign. In addition, as market conditions are difficult for their customers, they have extended the credit period given to them. The finance director of Redsmith has reviewed the inventory valuation policy and has included additional overheads incurred this year as he considers them to be production related. He is happy with the 2010 results and feels that they are a good reflection of the improved trading levels. Required: Using the information above: (i) Calculate FIVE ratios, for BOTH years, which would assist the audit senior in planning the audit; and (5 marks) (ii) From a review of the above information and the ratios calculated, explain the audit risks that arise and describe the appropriate response to these risks. (10 marks)