Fed: UN drugs agency threatens Australia s $160m poppy trade

AAP General News (Australia)
12-18-1999
Fed: UN drugs agency threatens Australia s $160m poppy trade

The United Nations' drugs agency has threatened to ban Australia's $160 million poppy
trade if heroin trials go ahead.

The Sydney Morning Herald newspaper reports the agency has written to the Prime Minister
suggesting heroin injecting rooms may breach Australia's international obligations.

A spokesman for the Viennna-based agency says Australia could ultimately face an international
embargo of its legal opiate exports.

Germany could face the same ban if it proceeds with heroin trials.

Australia's only legal opium poppy is in Tasmania and is worth $160 million to its economy.

Prime Minister JOHN HOWARD has written to state and territory leaders urging them to
halt heroin trials but New South Wales, Victoria and the ACT remain defiant.

AAP RTV sal/smf

KEYWORD: POPPY (SYDNEY)

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