I think Firestone would need to complete BFS before they became...

I think Firestone would need to complete BFS before they became a chance of a legitimate takeover target. But, you just never know. Over a billion tonnes is a large Indicated reserve. Someone might have a look at them before they undertake many more "value add" activities, on the off chance of getting them on the cheap, same applies for RES and Gleneagle. I think its unlikely at this stage, but it is possible.

With Pitman living in SA, he's better placed to have an idea about the regulatory hurdles and far more likely to have heard of any recent cases of government interference. In such circumstances, its not unreasonable to ask him the question.