Suez ceases British Energy talks

British Energy owns eight nuclear power stations including Sizewell B.

French utility company Suez has ended talks with nuclear power plant owner British Energy about a potential offer for the company.

The French company said it needed to concentrate on its merger with energy firm Gaz de France.

Suez is one of a number of energy companies that have been linked to a possible offer for British Energy.

UK energy firm Centrica, France's EDF, Germany's RWE and Spain's Iberdrola are all reported to be interested.

"Suez confirms that, in its discussions regarding the future development of the nuclear energy sector in the UK, those relating to a potential offer for British Energy have now ceased," the company said in a statement.

Further discussions once its merger with Gaz de France has been completed were not ruled out.

The French firm noted that UK takeover rules prevent it from resuming talks until the deal is finished.

Earlier this month, British Energy said it had received proposals from, "several parties wishing to make a full offer". It said talks would continue with all suitors over a "number of weeks".

British Energy produces around one-sixth of the UK's electricity from its eight nuclear power stations and one coal-fired power station.

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