Given the growing distaste for offshore drilling in the wake of the ongoing BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, the coal mining group could receive added attention as a viable alternative.

FORBES

Group's coal subsidiary, Semirara Mining Corp.

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The mining group has said that it wants to focus on core businesses such as iron ore and coal.

BBC: BHP Billiton sells Arizona copper mine to Capstone

Although Mr Dlamini will not have operational oversight of the mining businesses in South Africa, which range from platinum to coal, he will have a seat on the group's executive committee in London.

ECONOMIST: Face value