BE in 'advanced discussions'
25 July 2008
British Energy (BE) has confirmed it is engaged in "advanced discussions" in response to a new round of media interest in the future of the firm. BE owns eight power reactors and some of the UK's most promising sites for new build. Electricité de France (EdF) is widely held to be the only remaining bidder, and is expected to seal a takeover for over £11 billion ($21 billion) soon. The UK government would be pleased to see a significant ownership share remain in Britain, which has fuelled speculation that Centrica is involved in talks with BE and EdF to take a share of around 25%.