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Will Alstom drives be nuclear powered?

01 September, 2003

The future of Alstom`s drives and PLC operations is uncertain following the decision by the troubled group to sell off its Transmission & Distribution business, which includes the drives and controls activities.

The front-runner to buy the T&D business is thought to be the state-owned French nuclear power agency, Areva. It is not known whether Areva would want to keep the drives and PLC activities — its main interest is in Alstom`s power transmission operations.

Last month, Alstom announced plans to halve its 10,000-strong UK workforce within two years. It plans to close its Birmingham railway plant and to turn its remaining UK operations into a non-exporting service business.

The French Government is backing a £2bn rescue package for the ailing group, but this proposal has met stiff opposition and objections from the European Union.

In a separate move, Pierre Bilger, Alstom`s chief executive for 12 years until March this year, has said he will waive his rights to a €4.1m severance package.