THE Senate Inquiry examining the impact of relaxing import restrictions on beef heard accusations of "mischief" making this week.
Cattle Council of Australia told the inquiry it was concerned about a media "beat-up" surrounding the inquiry, which may cause the beef industry long-term damage in the public's eyes.
Peak livestock industry bodies are frustrated at the mixed messages about the threat of importing meat from countries affected by mad cow disease or BSE.
Victorian Farmers Federation supports the CCA and the Red Meat Advisory Council.
"It's unfortunate to see people taking political opportunism at the expense of the people and industry that they claim to represent," CCA president Greg Brown said.
The Federal Government's decision to relax trade restrictions comes into effect on Monday.
