Tailgate wont open

I have a problem!! My 1999 GT TDI's tailgate wont open. All doors unlock, but the tailgate wont. The other problem is that the tailgate lock is well and truly seized up. Have tried liberal amounts of release lube, with no joy. How can I get the tailgate open to have a look at the lock mechanism?

problem could be with the rear wash wipe

i had a simular issue where it wouldn't lock, turned out the rear wash pipe popped off and got the lock wet and seized up.
you will have to climb in the boot try unscrew and prize the plastic cover off, and open the lock by hand, then grease up the lock and fix the rear wash

not saying it is that but worth a look while you wait for replies from other members

Yeah, I'd go with fleng2008's advice.