6. If the shops were to be closed without warning or explanation alarm might be caused and possibly disturbances might ensue. For this reason I think it is necessary to announce beforehand the action that will be taken. If the announcement be carefully worded public confidence should be promoted by the knowledge that eventualities in regard to food are being foreseen and planned for in advance. 7. I seek the authority of the Committee to make a public announcement now, that in the event of invasion all retail food shops and catering establishments in the area affected will be closed for a short period in order to permit of stocktaking, that they will reopen as quickly as possible, and that thereafter they will distribute and dispose of their stocks in accordance with instructions given by the Ministry of Food.