Monday 6 March 2006
ABC NT Local News

The Minerals Council says the Northern Territory would be one of the biggest beneficiaries if Australia decides to sell uranium to India.

The Minerals Council says around 30 uranium companies have expressed an interest in exploiting deposits in the Territory

The council's Kezia Purick says those companies would be the big winners if Australia decides to export to the Indian market.

"There could be a lot of opportunities for the Northern Territory minerals industry, particularly the uranium sector given that the Territory has some of the most well-known ground for uranium," Ms Purick said.

Federal Resources Minister Ian Macfarlane is keen to see uranium exploration permits converted into mines without delay.

"I'll be disappointed if we don't see some new mines being developed over the next year or so," Mr Macfarlane said.