Apple growers plan to gatecrash PM

Apple growers angry over slow progress in pressing for access to the Australian market have threatened to disrupt a meeting Prime Minister Helen Clark plans to attend in Hastings tomorrow.

The orchardists want to gatecrash Grey Power's meeting with the Prime Minister to tell her they want a firm resolution over the issue of exporting apples to Australia.

The orchardists belong to the Apple Access Action Group, which is largely based in Hawkes Bay.

Growers said a large rally had been organised to greet Helen Clark - who will speak to Hastings Grey Power at 2pm - with people and tractors on the streets from 12.15pm.

At the same time, the orchardists planned to give Trade Negotiations Minister Jim Sutton a hot reception when he attends a Pipfruit New Zealand meeting in Havelock North.

Mr Sutton, who also holds the Agriculture portfolio, did not front up to the growers at their Wellington protest last month.

However, he will talk about world trade to the Pipfruit NZ special general meeting at the Havelock North Community Centre at 2pm.

Action Group spokesman John Bostock said members were not satisfied with moves the Government had made to persuade the Australians to end their ban on New Zealand apples.

Australia claims New Zealand apples could spread fireblight bacteria, even though the scientific evidence shows there is no risk.

The Prime Minister said this week that Australia would deal with the issue this year, but growers said they wanted more than just a promise that apples would be allowed into Australia "soon".

"We are not going to be fooled - and neither should our Prime Minister - by Australia," Mr Bostock said. "Don't think you will win election votes because you are saying 'soon'."

Hastings Grey Power president Ted Duffill said that although the organisation sympathised with the apple-growers, he would not allow them to dominate the meeting.

"If they should wish to send a small delegation to put their point across, they will be allowed questions along with other individuals at this meeting."

Mr Duffill said the orchardists could drive their tractors up and down the street as much as they liked but they would not be allowed to take over the meeting.

- NZPA