RULE 17F-2 SETS FORTH CERTAIN
STANDARDS TO BE FOLLOWED BY REGISTERED MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT
COMPANIES THAT MAINTAIN THEIR OWN CUSTODY THEIR PORTFOLIO
SECURITIES. THE SUBMISSION OF THE ACCOUNTANT'S CERTIFICATE ENSURES
THAT INVESTMENT COMPANY SECURITIES ARE SUBJECT TO SOUND AUDITING
PROCEDURES. THE PRESERVATION OF NOTATIONS REGARDING DEPOSITS AND
WITHDRAWALS ASSISTS THE INVESTMENT COMPANY IN KEEPING AN ACCURATE
ACCOUNTING OF THEIR ASSETS.
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that
the collection of information encompassed by this request complies
with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR
1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding
the proposed collection of information, that the certification
covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a
benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control
number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of
these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked
and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.