No comment from BHP Billiton on Rio talks

SYDNEY (Reuters) - Global miner BHP Billiton (BHP.AX) (BLT.L) refused to comment on Monday on media speculation that it had held informal discussions with rival Rio Tinto (RIO.AX)(RIO.L) at the weekend. BHP pulled out of a bid for Rio at the end of last year, saying the tough economic environment meant the deal was no longer viable, though there has been speculation it might resurrect its interest amid unease among Rio shareholders about Rio's proposed $19.5 billion tie-up with China's Chinalco.