XN000022-1974-03-12 — Page 7

Tuesday, March 12, 1974

- 6 -

It was agreed that the Commerce and Industry Department would

register companies wishing to participate, and written authorisations

would be issued to enable direct purchases from importers.

i,

The minimum sale to companies employing 200 workers or more will

be one ton at each transaction. For major retail outlets the minimum

will be five tons.

Mr. McGregor said that Secretariat approval will be sought

to extend the legal powers provided under the rice control scheme.

This would involve a change in the law to enable registration

of wholesalers so that effective action could be taken to stop any

malpractices in dealings between wholesalers and retailers.

In the meantime, the members of the committee have undertaken

to bring to the attention of the Commerce and Industry Department any

malpractices which come to their notice.

Mr McGregor said that the committee had considered at length

the internal distribution of rice supplies to ensure that adequate quantities

are available in both the cheaper and more expensive grades.

The terms of reference of the committee are to advise the

Director of Commerce and Industry on the administration of the rico control

scheme and all aspects of the rice trade.

It is intended to appoint one or two consumer representatives

to serve on the committee and consideration is now being given to choosing

suitable members.

Mr. McGregor informed the committee that it was proposed, in

addition, to appoint a member to represent major retail outlets.

17