Labor will push to save the powers, independence and tenure of the Inspector-General of Biosecurity when the Biosecurity Bill 2014 is considered by the Senate next week.

Recent food safety scares including the link between Hepatitis A cases and imported berries, highlight the need for Australia to have the very best biosecurity system we can. So too does the threat of pests and diseases to Australian agriculture and to maintain our reputation for high quality, clean and safe produce.

The Abbott Governments decision to amend the former Labor Governments Bill will undermine the effectiveness of the Inspector-General of Biosecurity and will weaken rather than strengthen our biosecurity system.

This backward step will have an adverse effect on the independence and review powers of the Inspector-General.

Tony Abbott has become master of the back-flip in recent weeks. Next week the Opposition will provide him with an opportunity to perform another.