The Minister, whether or not the chief executive has so recommended, may at any time reject an application for the grant of a mining lease notwithstanding that the application has not been the subject of a hearing by the Land Court if—
(a) the Minister is satisfied that the applicant has not complied with any requirement placed upon the applicant by or under this Act in respect of the application; or
(b) the Minister considers that it is not in the public interest for the mining lease to be granted.