UK Talks to Administrators in Case Thames Is Nationalized

A Thames Water works site in London.

Photographer: Jaimi Joy/Bloomberg

The UK has been talking to administrators about next steps for Thames Water as it intensifies preparations for a possible form of temporary nationalization, according to people familiar with the matter, who spoke on the condition of anonymity.

Environment Minister Steve Reed is rejecting calls from creditors for special treatment on sewage fines, setting the stage for a showdown which could end with plans to rescue the company falling apart.