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changed to re-entry permits. So far, no statutory punishment
has been announced for those in possession of re-entry per- mits who fail to return to China (and are repatriated by the Hong Kong authorities). In some cases, Traveller said, they have even been advised by the cadres to bring along their marriage certificates or other relevant documents before they depart to facilitate their permanent residence in Hong Kong.
Discount Clearance Sale
8.
Traveller said that in this year's Mid-Autumn
Festival celebrations, China launched a nationwide special
discount clearance sale which ran from 1st to 3rd October.
All the prices of food, daily commodities, electrical appli- ances and clothing were reduced by 20-40%. Subsequently,
buying sprees took place.
Gold Ornaments being Sold
9.
Traveller added that China recently resumed the
sale of gold ornaments in friendship stores. When an ornament is purchased it cannot be resold to the dealer when the gold price rises. This measure was taken to prevent profiteering but it has also deterred many potential buyers.
Banking
10.
An accounts clerk employed by the Lechang County Agricultural Bank in Lechang County, said the bank is a branch of the China Agricultural Bank and provides a comprehensive banking service. The rapid development in foreign trade has brought in more business, especially to the departments deal- ing with remittances and money orders.
11.
Traveller said that in the past year the County Agricultural Bank, which has branches in every commune, has made considerable loans to the peasants for the purchase of farm tools and fertiliser. These items have been necessary to increase production since the implementation of the pro- duction responsibility system. Before considering a loan application, the branch looks at the financial position and manpower of the household concerned. The maximum loan available for each household is RMB 600. The interest rate
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