[Federal Register Volume 61, Number 207 (Thursday, October 24, 1996)]
[Notices]
[Page 55130]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 96-27305]


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DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

Bureau of the Census
[Docket No. 961015287-6287-01]
RIN 0607-XX17


Annual Trade Survey

AGENCY: Bureau of the Census, Commerce

ACTION: Notice of determination.

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SUMMARY: In accordance with Title 13, United States Code, Sections 182, 
224, and 225, I have determined that the Census Bureau needs to collect 
data covering year-end inventories, annual sales, and purchases to 
provide a sound statistical basis for the formation of policy by 
various governmental agencies. These data also apply to a variety of 
public and business needs. This annual survey is a continuation of 
similar wholesale trade surveys conducted each year since 1978. It 
provides on a comparable classification basis annual sales, 
inventories, and purchases for 1995 and 1996. These data are not 
available publicly on a timely basis from nongovernmental or other 
governmental sources.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ronald L. Piencykoski or Edward Murphy 
on (301) 457-2779.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The Census Bureau is authorized to take 
surveys necessary to furnish current data on subjects covered by the 
major censuses authorized by Title 13, United States Code. This survey 
will provide continuing and timely national statistical data on 
wholesale trade for the period between economic censuses. The data 
collected in this survey will be within the general scope and nature of 
those inquiries covered in the economic censuses.
    The Census Bureau will require selected firms operating merchant 
wholesale establishments in the United States (with sales size 
determining the probability of selection) to report on the 1996 Annual 
Trade Survey. We will furnish report forms to the firms covered by this 
survey and will require their submission within thirty days after 
receipt. The sample will provide, with measurable reliability, 
statistics on the subjects specified above.
    This survey has been submitted to the Office of Management and 
Budget, in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act, Public Law 96-
511, as amended, and was cleared under OMB Control No. 0607-0195. We 
will provide copies of the form upon written request to the Director, 
Bureau of the Census, Washington, D.C. 20233.
    Based upon the foregoing, I have directed that an annual survey be 
conducted for the purpose of collecting these data.

    Dated: October 16, 1996.
Bryant Benton,
Deputy Director, Bureau of the Census.
[FR Doc. 96-27305 Filed 10-23-96; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510-07-P