He is undoubtedly in good company for the Thai authorities have released a swag of offshore and onshore permits in recent days - some of which had been waiting formal Ministerial approval for years.

EnergyReview.net contacted Orth this morning after noticing Carnarvon's partner, Pacific Tiger, had been awarded operatorship of two onshore blocks. Pacific is the operator of the Wichian Buri oilfield in which Carnarvon has 40%.

Orth confirmed they were partnering Pacific Tiger again to the tune of 40% but said he was unaware the permits had finally been awarded. He said a number of companies would be in the same position given the long delay.

Pacific Tiger executive Mike Cvetanovic said from Singapore this morning he had not received notification in writing but had been told via phone by a senior Thai official.

"I don't expect to be told as such. I expect to be told a date, on which the Minister is available for signing, at which we'll sign the formalities," he said.

Blocks L 44/43 and L 33/43 surround the Wichian Buri oilfields which produce around 300 barrels per day for the partners. Cvetanovic said they would be testing extensions and step outs from the field.

"We believe the Wichian Buri field is on the edge of a large structure which extends to the north. The unknowns are the reservoir sizes and well deliverabilities but it is a very exciting opportunity," he said.

Orth said that 2D seismic had been recently shot, of which they would probably acquire more and possibly some 3D seismic.