PREFACE Over the past months, the Administration has been engaged in a comprehensive review of the many statutes which regulate the nation's economic activity. As part of this effort, the Antitrust Division of the Department of Justice undertook the task of evaluating the effects of the Robinson-Patman Act, a 1936 amendment to the Clayton Act dealing with price discrimination in the sale of commodities in interstate commerce. The initial product of the Division's effort was the release, in the summer of 1975, of a White Paper and two draft statutes which discussed the repeal or reform of Robinson-Patman. In response to the ensuing debate, the Department commenced an in-depth analysis of Robinson-Patman. At the same time the Domestic Council Review Group on Regulatory Reform decided to hold hearings on the operation of Robinson-Patman for the purpose of learning whether the Act should be retained, modified, or repealed. Over 20 persons testified at these hearings which took place on December 8, 9, and 10, 1975. Witnesses included members of the academic community, practicing attorneys, representatives of small business groups, businessmen, and present and former government officials. Upon the conclusion of these hearings, Antitrust Division staff members began the preparation of this Report, The ultimate views contained in this Report draw on those hearings, our complex economy and of the various possibilities for legislative action. |