Mr Stewart cited a WGAG media release issued yesterday which states that "AWB could have a stronger role in grower advocacy for its grower shareholders as it becomes evident to our political masters that the current export arrangements are found wanting".

Mr Stewart said this statement shows that WGAG are intent on using AWB as an agri-political platform, rather than helping AWB to compete on an equal footing with bulk handling companies and international traders in the new wheat export marketing environment.

"The WGAG comprises six disenchanted wheat growers in NSW who have failed to succeed in their opposition to the abolition of the single desk," Mr Stewart said.

"The WGAG appears to be trying to cling to the old wheat export marketing system in which they had some political influence.

"They fail to realise that the world has changed. They simply have no vision for the future.

"If AWB remains the only company on the Australian Stock Exchange with an out-dated and costly dual shareholding structure, it will fall behind and be unable to offer Australian wheat growers competitive prices and services in the new deregulated wheat export marketing environment."