The invention relates to a load-bearing structure for panels of suspended ceilings, in the case of which structure use is made of cross-sectionally T-shaped load-bearing rails in order to hold the panels. A retaining strip provided with grooves on the side surfaces is fixed on the load-bearing rails by means of a U-shaped clips. Profile strips engage into the grooves on the side surfaces of the retaining strips by means of tongues or similar protrusions. The profile strips have a bearing surface which is essentially in alignment with the flange of the load-bearing rail and intended for the panels. This thus ensures that the panels are held securely, even if the load-bearing rails should deform in the heat. <IMAGE>
