I think it only highlights the fact that should the decision go...

I think it only highlights the fact that should the decision go against CAZ then CAZ will be in an excellent position to legally challenge the Act.

Very much like a win/win situation for CAZ.

Exploration and Mining are NOT one in the same and for that reason the "public interest" issue of section 111 of the Act is a very grey area.

It may very well come down to the minister withdrawing RIO's "public interest" application on the grounds that it does not fall within the guidelines of section 111 of the Act.

No doubt, Carpenter's legal advisers will be advising him on the legality of RIO's current application for the minister to use his discretionary powers.

Carpenter is very much aware that if he get's this one wrong, his decision will come back to haunt him.

The fact that Carpenter is now premier of WA does nothing more than raising the stakes for him to get it wright.