Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Tony Burke, said allegations of bribery by wool industry officials should be taken seriously.

Mr Burke said the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry had advised him it had no knowledge of the alleged meetings or inducements, as reported in the media.

“I am aware of the bribery allegations made by a Swedish television program and of recent comments by the Swedish Minister for Agriculture about the practice of mulesing,” Mr Burke said.

“Animal welfare is a priority – that’s why the Australian Government and the wool industry continue to invest in research and development to find an alternative to surgical mulesing.

“Until an alternative is found the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and the Australian Veterinary Association recognise the need for surgical mulesing to avoid flystrike.

“If surgical mulesing were to stop without an alternative in place, up to three million sheep would be at risk of painful death from flystrike.

“I sought a meeting with the Swedish Ambassador to Australia, which occurred last Wednesday, and wrote to the Swedish Minister for Agriculture to convey our strong views on this issue and our support for the industry moving forward.

“I also emphasised the need for accurate and informed debate on this important issue.

“Swedish consumers can continue to enjoy Australian wool products, knowing that animal welfare concerns are being addressed and that it’s the best wool in the world.”