The Greens fear industry is using further covert tactics to try and influence forestry policy [File photo].
Last Update: Monday, October 2, 2006. 5:11pm (AEST)

Greens demand probe into 'A-Team' spies allegations

The Australian Greens have called for a full investigation after revelations that there was a secret operation to influence the Victorian Labor Party's forestry policy.

There are allegations of a covert campaign in the 1990s by former workers of packaging company Amcor, to infiltrate the state ALP and influence its forestry policy.

Documents revealed to ABC TV's Four Corners program show workers at Amcor established a lobby group, known as the "A-Team", to secure the company's supply of native hardwood and to discredit conservationists.

The group spied on meetings and reported back to Amcor.

Victorian Premier Steve Bracks says he knew nothing about the campaign.

"That period had finished by the time we got to government of course, and we had a vigorous policy which included reducing logging by 30 per cent," Mr Bracks said.

But Greens Senator Christine Milne says she fears similar tactics are still being used within the industry.

"I think it's time we need a full investigation of the full extent of subversive activities," Senator Milne said.

Amcor has declined to comment.

The full report will be aired tonight on ABC TV's Four Corners at 8:30pm AEST.