The following questions relate to audit reporting standards. Select the best response.

a. The first standard of reporting requires that, "the report shall state whether the financial statements are presented in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles." This should be construed to require 

1. A statement of fact by the auditor. 

2. An opinion by the auditor. 

3. An implied measure of fairness. 

4. An objective measure of compliance.

b. The objective of the consistency standard is to provide assurance that 

1. There are no variations in the format and presentation of financial statements.

2. Substantially different transactions and events are not accounted for on an identical basis.

3. The auditor is consulted before material changes are made in the application of accounting principles.

4. The comparability of financial statements between periods is not materially affected by changes in accounting principles without disclosure.