BNFL also sets out in great detail the chronology and content of the discussions that took place between BE and BNFL, which shows that BNFL already expressed itself willing to help BE before BE turned to the UK Government for assistance but realised that this would not be possible without a global restructuring plan.. The discussions already started in May 2000 when BE first requested, without success, the application of the hardship clause contained in the contracts.
Neuvottelut aloitettiin jo toukokuussa 2000, kun BE pyysi ensimmäistä kertaa – tuloksetta – sopimuksiin sisältyvän taloudellisia vaikeuksia koskevan lausekkeen soveltamista.