Australian PM's New Zealand apple truce 'premature'
An Australian state growers association has labelled Prime Minister Julia Gillard's comments about a New Zealand apple truce as 'cheap political kudos', while investigation into NZ apples continues, reported website Countrynews.com.au.
The story reported Biosecurity Australia is conducting a new import risk analysis for New Zealand apples that might not be finished until mid-year.
Fruit Growers Victoria general manager John Wilson said the local industry was 'amazed' that Gillard would make such comments for 'cheap political kudos in a foreign country'.
The story said the PM's comments were premature and created doubt about due process, as the risk assessment process was still incomplete.
Related story: Australian PM announces apple war ceasefire with NZ
Source: www.freshfruitportal.com