Yay, for once a question I actually know the answer to!

The minister of mineral resources named in the article was replaced a couple of months ago, much to Phillip's disappointment, as apparently they'd built up a good working relationship. He (POQ) was flying out to SA a couple of weeks ago to meet the new minister. Hence the delay, as the new guy finds his feet.

This info was supplied by newtofo who met Phillip a few weeks back at a Falcon presentation.