Nick Sherry (Tasmania, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Superannuation and Corporate Law) Share this | Hansard source

Unlike those opposite, if there is something positive that was carried out by the former government, I am pleased to acknowledge it. Through you, Mr President, unlike you, Senator McGauran, I do not have to change parties to acknowledge it. We know that retailers are working with the industry to implement systems that allow them to access wool that meets their ethical requirements in the lead-up to 2010. The minister strongly supports and commends the wool industry in meeting these needs.

There is not a European boycott of Australian sheep or wool. The minister notes that there are up to 13 retailers in Sweden who have stated they now require garments sourced from wool from unmulesed sheep. The minister understands that industry is in discussions with these retailers about how best to meet these requirements. The minister, Mr Burke, is also aware of media reports that some firms in Denmark have also expressed concern. There are reports that Mr Laurence Modiano of wool trading company G Modiano has called for the use of relief measures in conjunction with mulesing. A pain relief product is currently available for use by wool growers, and the minister understands it has been used with some success in the industry.

Mr Burke acknowledges that there are differing views within the wool industry about how to respond to the PETA campaign and urges all in the industry to work together to resolve what is a very important issue in terms of both animal welfare and the future of the interests of Australian wool growers. Mr Burke also notes reports that the Swedish agriculture minister recently made some comments critical of Australia’s handling of this issue. The minister has written to him to outline why mulesing in this country is still necessary. In doing so the minister noted the AVA’s recent reports of the progress to develop alternatives and the RSPCA’s acceptance that mulesing is necessary in the absence of any less painful alternative. (Time expired)