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 * (b) Lists of the quantities and kinds of food in the authorized ration for (1) French Forces (2) A.S. Forces and (3) any major feeding groups (such as suppletives) which are furnished a separate ration. The lists would indicate those items procured locally and those in metropolitan France, and the current prices being paid for each.


 * (c) Latest available inventory position and explanation of basis for stock levels maintained.


 * (d) Data on unit cost, consumption rates and inventory status of any special or operational rations used.

3. For estimates of clothing costs, the French should be requested to provide:


 * (a) A general explanation of the system or systems used by each service in providing clothing to (1) French Forces and (2) Associated States Forces, including the significance, if any, of deployment on clothing requirements.


 * (b) A list of the items and quantities of clothing furnished individuals upon entry into the service, and the value of this initial outfit (by service).


 * (c) Latest available data as to annual clothing replacement costs per man, (i.e. consumption factors).


 * (d) Current inventory position and explanation of basis for stock levels maintained.

4. Inasmuch as the US combined Group Saigon will have definite responsibilities in the administration of the $385 million aid program for the support of military personnel of the Associated States, procedures should be set up to keep currently advised of (a) changes in personnel plans as changes are made in force plans, (b) progress made toward meeting goals (or slippages) in force plans and personnel plans, (c) experience data on food and clothing consumption, prices, and stock levels as well as (d) experienced expenditure rates for pay and allowances.


 * The official rate of exchange is 35 piasters to the dollar, while the present purchasing power parity in Indochina is about 72 piasters to the dollar. It is apparent that for those items purchased locally, there is an average 50% loss of dollars as a result of the differences between the exchange rate and tho dollar piaster purchasing power parity.

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