Australia denies delaying Chinese mining takeover
Updated
The Australian government has denied reports it is delaying a decision to allow a Chinese company to buy into a West Australian iron ore miner.
Federal Treasurer, Wayne Swan, says there has been an interim order issued by the foreign investment review board into a bid by China's state-owned Sinosteel to acquire a shareholding and assets in Murchison Metals.
He's denied reports Australia is delaying a decision.
"That interim order actually establishes a firm timetable for a final decision.
"That final decision will be taken in the next 90 days so what there is out there now issued by the foreign investment review board is a firm timetable," Mr Swan said.
