XN000022-1974-03-25 — Page 3

Australian Rice

Taiwan Rice

Pakistan Rice

Monday, March 25, 1974

2 -

190

2.30

158

2.00

168.50

2.10

Mr. Jimmy McGregor, Deputy Director of Commerce and Industry,

and Chairman of the Rice Advisory Committee, said that the committee would

bring pressure to bear on any retailers selling above the prescribed

maximum retail price.

"We have representatives from all sections of the trade on the

committee, and with their support it would be possible to deny rice to

wholesalers or retailers who overcharge on prices," he added.

Mr. McGregor said that the committee had approved arrangements

for direct sales of rice to be sold by importers to groups of retailers,

provided they complied with certain conditions.

To participate in the direct purchase scheme, retailers' groups

would have to form an effective co-operative purchasing agency, and

nominate a company to purchase the rice on their behalf on a cash basis.

The department has made arrangements for over 2,000 tons of rice

to be offered for sale by importers this morning

normal consumption.

more than double the

Mr. McGregor said that there should be no problem with supply

and no increase in prices until the new price structure becomes effective

on April 1.

"The new maximum prices will then apply throughout April without

further change," he said.

Note to Editors:

The Commerce and Industry Department would appreciate your co-operation in giving the widest

possible publicity to the new rice prices which come into effect on April 1.

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