Peabody, which is in the process of a compulsory acquisition of all outstanding shares of Macarthur Coal after obtaining a relevant interest in more than 90% cent of its shares, would initially continue to operate as usual from its Queensland and New South Wales mines, he said.

“I want to take the opportunity to briefly explain how this development may impact our current supply chain dealings,” he said.

“In the near term, it will be business as usual and there should not be any material impact on the way we work together.

“An operational review will be conducted to examine areas of improvement, identify where there are opportunities and initiate programs to achieve operational efficiencies and continuous improvement in productivity and safety.”

Last week Peabody Energy global chief executive Gregory Boyce said Macarthur would deliver Peabody strategic benefits.

“We are very pleased to be acquiring 100 per cent of Macarthur shares, which brings clear strategic and financial benefits,” he said.

“Peabody welcomes Macarthur employees into the Peabody team and looks forward to completing operational improvements, accelerating the realisation of synergies and advancing Macarthur’s growth pipeline.”