My first thought would be a possibility of some parasite the leaves a residue that attracts the bees. I haven't heard of this before. I would think about using an insecticidal soap to wash off any attractant. Has anyone else had this problem before? Good luck!

Usually I find bees going over the new leaves and inflos however I have not seen any damage. I think they might be gathering moisture or some sap used in protecting the hive. I do not know for sure.

Thanks labland and tdogdad for your posts :) It appears the bees are after the sap as the new leaves are covered in lots of white dots, but on a couple of seedlings the bees are actually eating the soft flesh just below the growing tip as well at the tip itself :( I have been spraying with 'Mavrik' which is a chewing & sucking insect killer, but it only keeps them away for a short time as bees are back the next day.
On a different note... I have a Chuppa Chupp cutting with 2 tips which has been in the ground for about 18 months , I noticed this morning it is sending up a flower spike (very exciting :)) the only problem is here in Australia we are now in AUTUMN... what are my chances of seeing the flower develop???

Hello folks. I just noticed this yes, they are actually making the sap run as they eat , any new tips. Thanks. SCOTT houston tx