Final answer:
The safeguard implemented by the client that might mitigate a threat to independence is an effective corporate governance structure, as it ensures oversight by independent parties and maintains auditor's independence. Option b
Step-by-step explanation:
Within auditing and assurance services, it's crucial for the auditor to maintain independence to ensure that the financial statements are fair and free from material misstatement. Safeguards to auditor independence can be created by the auditing profession, legislation, or regulation, and can also be implemented by the audit client.
In the context of the question, the correct answer is 'b. An effective corporate governance structure.' This is because a robust corporate governance system includes oversight by those charged with governance (such as a board of directors or audit committee) who are independent of the company's management.
These individuals can help ensure that management's decisions, including those relating to the appointment and compensation of the external auditors, do not compromise the auditor's independence. Other options like requiring continuing education and a second partner review are typically safeguards implemented by the audit firm rather than the client. Option b