A 30 should be fine, he can actually get away with 20 if he wanted to... These are small 1'' tropical fish, not cichlids (as he stated, he removed his lab) or other fish that grow to a large extent.
You are nagging rather then helping, i don't think he needs any more reminders as this thread is already what 7 pages... If he truly cares about his fish, he will do what is necessary. Neither you or i can do anything about that. Advice has already been given, and it's good that he's looking for a larger tank and not completely abandoning the thread.