XN000022-1974-03-19 — Page 3

2 -

Tuesday, March 19, 1974

"We shall show no hesitation in denying rice to wholesalers if

it can be proved to our satisfaction that they are exceeding the agreed

mark-up. The committee agreed that this course of action should be taken."

Detailed conditions for the direct purchase of rice by large

organisations and retail outlets were agreed at the meeting.

The Commerce and Industry Department has so far received about

80 applications to participate in the direct purchase scheme, Those will

now be processed as quickly as possible.

Referring to reports that Thailand will place a temporary ban on

rice exports, Mr. McGregor said that the department had not yet been able to

obtain any firm information.

The committee also had no information, although several members, like

the department, are seeking clarification from Thailand.

"Even if these reports prove to be correct, however, I do not

believe that there is any real cause for alarm as other sources will make

up for any shortfall in supply," commented Mr. McGregor.

13

-