UPDATE 1-Chevron Australia, unions make progress in LNG talks but deal elusive

Negotiations over a stalled pay and conditions deal between Chevron and unions at its liquefied natural gas (LNG) facilities in Australia made progress on Friday, but fell short of sealing an agreement to end months of labour disputes at the major export sites. Chevron and the unions held a third day of talks before Australia's industrial arbitrator, the Fair Work Commission (FWC), on Friday, but a "couple" of sticking points remain, according to a union official involved in the talks who declined to be named. Chevron did not immediately respond to a request for comment but has previously said there are only a small number of issues in the way of a final deal, including reimbursement for travel and meals, adding that it is committed to reaching a deal.