STOCKPILING OF RICE 1955/1956

Mr R. Jumabhoy asked the Minister for Commerce and Industry-

(a) What is the average tonnage of rice kept by the Government as a stockpile for the years 1955 and 1956;

(b) What is the system of purchasing rice for the stockpile;

(c) To state the handling charges, godown rent, insurance and other incidental expenses per ton of rice.

Mr J. M. Jumabhoy: (a) 1955 . 11,443 tons

1956 . 15,508 tons

(b) Normally purchases are made by tender.

(c) $3.20 per ton for 1,500 tons and under handled in any one calendar month.

$3.00 per ton for quantities between 1,501 and 3,000 tons handled in any one calendar month.

$2.75 per ton for quantities between 3,001 and 5,000 tons handled in any one calendar month.

$2.60 per ton for quantities in excess of 5,000 tons handled in any one calendar month.

These charges include all normal handling charges, telephone rentals, light and water supplied to godowns, watchmen's wages and the cost of deinfestation. The godowns are Government property. Godowns and stock are not insured.