inside business, page-28

Hi Hendrous,

Yes, I think that you have excellent points. I know people who have worked in the Niger Delta, and its not a location for the faint hearted. I have worked in the Middle East and Pakistan, and though not as challenging as Nigeria made me appreciate safe, business friendly environments.

I hope that AOE directors milk the point of Australia being a safe, business friendly place for all its worth in securing a decent price for us if the Shell acquisition goes ahead.

Yes, agree AOE should have the upper hand. Shell needs the resources to stay in business in the longer term. They often refer to planning horizons of decades rather than years. To be in a nice location where its easier to attract staff would be a bonus for them (in my opinion).

I'm not betting in which way its going to go either. I just hope that AOE doesn't let the company go too cheaply (whatever that figure might be).

Thank you for your reply.