Inclusion Criteria:

- Pathological confirmation of malignant pleural mesothelioma

- Measurable disease using modified RECIST criteria with at least one lesion ≥ 1cm
using spiral CT in a single dimension. This scan must be within 28 days of
randomisation.

- Performance status ECOG 01

- Age > 18

- Able to swallow oral medication

- Adequate haematological status

- Adequate organ function

- Negative serum or urine pregnancy test. Male subject agrees to use an acceptable
method of birth control for the duration of the study and contraception must be used
by women of child bearing potential.

- Ability to understand and willing to sign the written informed consent to participate
(including donation of diagnostic biopsy tissue for research).

- Ability to comply with the requirements of the protocol

Exclusion Criteria:

- Other investigational or commercial agents or therapies administered with the intent
of treating the patient's malignancy.

- Evidence of CNS metastases that in the opinion of the investigator should receive
local treatment prior to systemic cytotoxic chemotherapy

- Uncontrolled intercurrent illness

- The patient has a history of prior malignant tumour, unless the patient has been
without evidence of disease for at least three years, or the tumour was a nonmelanoma
skin tumour or insitu cervix carcinoma.

- Prior exposure to vorinostat or another HDAC inhibitor is not allowed. Prior valproic
acid is acceptable but only if there has been at least 30 days washout period

- Preplanned surgery or procedures that would interfere with the conduct of the study.

- Patients who have had surgery within 28 days of randomisation

- Receipt of extensive radiation therapy, systemic chemotherapy, or other
antineoplastic therapy within 4 weeks before enrolment is not allowed. However, drain
site radiotherapy is allowed.