The correct answer is D.
The main object of an audit of accounts of a joint-stock company is to find out whether the balance sheet and profit and loss account are drawn up properly according to the Companies Act, and they represent a true and fair view of the state of affairs.
Option A is incorrect because the main object of an audit is not to detect and prevent errors. The auditor’s responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial statements, not to prevent errors from occurring.
Option B is incorrect because the main object of an audit is not to detect and prevent frauds. The auditor’s responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial statements, not to prevent frauds from occurring.
Option C is incorrect because the main object of an audit is not to detect and prevent errors and frauds. The auditor’s responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial statements, not to prevent errors and frauds from occurring.