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1. Further to its previous observation, the Committee notes the Government's reply to the earlier communication of the Maritime Trade Union of Crews in the Service of the Peruvian Steamship Company, referring to certain problems in the hygiene of food and water supplies. The Union had stated in its comments in December 1987 that drinking water tanks were rusty and in a poor condition, not being properly maintained, so that 90 per cent of crews suffered stomach complaints; they also referred to generally poor conditions of hygiene and infestation by vermin. The Government states in its report received February 1990 that the comments of the Union are unfounded. The Government states that appropriate action is always taken under the law - requiring corrective measures and if necessary imposing fines - when such questions arise.

2. The Committee has noted with interest the provisions of Supreme Decree No. 012-77-SA of 1977 concerning the quality and handling of food and water supplies (Article 5(1) of the Convention), and the arrangement of the catering department (Article 5(2)(b)). It is again referring to certain matters in a direct request.