Fed: Australian grapes at threat from US insect: Katter

AAP General News (Australia)
08-29-2000
Fed: Australian grapes at threat from US insect: Katter

A Queensland National Party MP says Australia's grape industry could be threatened
by a US insect because of inept trade restrictions.

BOB KATTER says wine and table grapes are at risk as approval the Australian Quarantine
and Inspection Service has given approval to import Californian grapes.

Californian vineyards, particularly those in the south, have been devastated by a range
of diseases, with most spread by the glassy winged sharpshooter.

Mr KATTER says there are at least eight US diseases that may be spread by the insect
if it gets into Australia.

He says while the quarantine service believes cold storage will kill off the insect
during transit, there's overwhelming scientific evidence suggesting the sharpshooter may
survive.

The Quarantine service gave approval for importation earlier this year, but it's now
being appealed.

AAP RTV sw/mfh/jtb/jn

KEYWORD: GRAPES (CANBERRA)

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