ROY Burton is the new director of the Department of Minerals and Energy’s mineral titles division.

The division administers the world’s biggest mineral title system.

Mr Burton has been acting director of mineral titles since October 1999, following the appointment of Bill Phillips to the position of deputy director general, legislation and land access.

Director General Lee Ranford said Mr Burton’s strong personal performance coupled with his extensive and diverse experience within the department would be an asset to the minerals titles division.

“I am sure that Mr Burton has the knowledge and skills to meet the challenging situtations he will face in his new role,” Mr Ranford said.

Mr Burton’s involvement with the department stretches back more than 30 years.

In 1965 he started in the records branch. Five years later Mr Burton was transferred to mining registration – the precursor to the minerals title division. He also served as policy officer for the Minister of Mines from 1989 to 1991.