WA Libs to tackle resistance to wheat regulation

WA Liberal MPs and senators will meet this morning to strike a united front against a push by their east coast colleagues to hinder the deregulation of the wheat export industry.

The issue is expected to be debated in today's joint coalition party-room meeting, as Agriculture Minister Barnaby Joyce and Small Business Minister Bruce Billson finalise a decision on new rules for port access by September 30.

_The West Australian _revealed yesterday that Mr Joyce and Mr Billson were at odds as they tried to balance the needs of WA growers and Eastern States farmers.

It is understood Mr Joyce is in favour of allowing bulk wheat exports to remain regulated until there is greater competition at ports. As a concession to WA farmers, co-operatives such as the State's near-monopoly grains handler CBH will be exempt because it is owned by growers who have an incentive to keep fees low.

But _The West Australian _has been told Mr Billson, on Treasury's advice, is uncomfortable with granting exemptions and wants a level playing field for all port operators.

He is understood to support a five-year deadline for the full deregulation of the industry.

When wheat deregulation was last debated in 2012, many WA Liberals defied the party room to speak out in favour of the Labor government's bid to abolish the Wheat Export Authority and a 22¢ a tonne export levy.

At the time, Julie Bishop told WA Liberals to back off, saying an argument could damage Tony Abbott's leadership. Now WA Liberals are concerned hard-won gains could be reversed.

Pastoralists and Graziers Association grain growers chairman John Snooke said WA growers wanted full deregulation as soon as possible.