Indonesia has delayed a decision on whether to allow mining companies back into areas declared prote

Indonesia has delayed a decision on whether to allow mining companies back into areas declared protected forest reserves.

MiningNews (Indonesia)

30 September 2002

A decision was expected this week but will now not be made until after October 28.

The forestry law, introduced in 1999, effectively stopped a string of mine developments by some of the world's biggest mining companies.

Newmont, BHP Billiton, Freeport and Inco were among the international miners caught by the law which stopped all mining and exploration in designated areas - even if the government had previously given approval.

A spokesman for the Mines and Energy minister was quoted by Dow Jones Newswires as saying that despite the delay "I believe the decision will be positive for mining companies".

He said the postponement was largely due to parliament being in recess, not a disagreement within the government.

As well as 22 projects on hold, another 28 are awaiting approval to start work in what are designated protected forest areas.