BHP Billiton chief says Rio offer still compelling

SYDNEY, Oct 30 (Reuters) - Top miner BHP Billiton Ltd's all-share offer for rival Rio Tinto Ltd was still compelling, BHP's Chief Executive Marius Kloppers said on Thursday. Kloppers was answering questions following a speech in Sydney. There has been market speculation BHP might be forced to sweeten its bid to include a cash component given a steep decline in its share price amid the global financial turmoil.