UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

[x] Quarterly Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2005

OR

[ ] Transition Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the transition period from ______ to _______

Commission File No. 0-25551

MIDAMERICAN ENERGY HOLDINGS COMPANY
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)


Iowa
 
94-2213782
(State or other jurisdiction of
 
(I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization)
 
Identification No.)
     
     
666 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa
 
50309
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
(Zip Code)
     

 
(515) 242-4300
 
 
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
 
     
     
 
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)
 


Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes [x] No [ ]

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
Yes [ ] No [x]

All of the shares of common equity of MidAmerican Energy Holdings Company are privately held by a limited group of investors. As of April 30, 2005, 9,081,087 shares of common stock were outstanding.
 
 


TABLE OF CONTENTS


     
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2


PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.


REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM


To the Board of Directors and Stockholders
MidAmerican Energy Holdings Company
Des Moines, Iowa

We have reviewed the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of MidAmerican Energy Holdings Company and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of March 31, 2005, and the related consolidated statements of operations and cash flows for the three-month periods ended March 31, 2005 and 2004. These interim financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management.

We conducted our reviews in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). A review of interim financial information consists principally of applying analytical procedures and making inquiries of persons responsible for financial and accounting matters. It is substantially less in scope than an audit conducted in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the objective of which is the expression of an opinion regarding the financial statements taken as a whole. Accordingly, we do not express such an opinion.

Based on our reviews, we are not aware of any material modifications that should be made to such consolidated interim financial statements for them to be in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

We have previously audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheet of MidAmerican Energy Holdings Company and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2004, and the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for the year then ended (not presented herein); and in our report dated February 25, 2005, we expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements. In our opinion, the information set forth in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2004 is fairly stated, in all material respects, in relation to the consolidated balance sheet from which it has been derived.


/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP


Des Moines, Iowa
May 5, 2005
 
3

 
MIDAMERICAN ENERGY HOLDINGS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Amounts in thousands)
 
   
As of
 
     
March 31,
   
December 31,
 
     
2005
   
2004
 
 
   
(Unaudited)
       
ASSETS
Current assets:
             
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
598,921
 
$
837,353
 
Short-term investments
   
115,293
   
123,550
 
Restricted cash and short-term investments
   
125,922
   
129,316
 
Accounts receivable, net
   
728,804
   
695,761
 
Amounts held in trust
   
158,059
   
111,708
 
Inventories
   
68,908
   
125,079
 
Other current assets
   
165,728
   
141,194
 
Total current assets
   
1,961,635
   
2,163,961
 
Properties, plants and equipment, net
   
11,679,031
   
11,607,264
 
Goodwill
   
4,285,132
   
4,306,751
 
Regulatory assets
   
413,754
   
451,830
 
Other investments
   
270,905
   
261,575
 
Equity investments
   
212,115
   
210,430
 
Deferred charges and other assets
   
899,394
   
901,751
 
Total assets
 
$
19,721,966
 
$
19,903,562
 
 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities:
             
Accounts payable
 
$
400,883
 
$
410,319
 
Accrued interest
   
187,278
   
197,813
 
Accrued property and other taxes
   
157,358
   
166,639
 
Amounts held in trust
   
158,059
   
111,708
 
Other liabilities
   
451,476
   
420,452
 
Short-term debt
   
9,355
   
9,090
 
Current portion of long-term debt
   
638,964
   
1,145,598
 
Current portion of parent company subordinated debt
   
188,543
   
188,543
 
Total current liabilities
   
2,191,916
   
2,650,162
 
Other long-term accrued liabilities
   
2,233,417
   
2,171,616
 
Parent company senior debt
   
2,773,090
   
2,771,957
 
Parent company subordinated debt
   
1,586,370
   
1,585,810
 
Subsidiary and project debt
   
6,358,792
   
6,304,923
 
Deferred income taxes
   
1,320,243
   
1,281,833
 
Total liabilities
   
16,463,828
   
16,766,301
 
Deferred income
   
60,592
   
62,443
 
Minority interest
   
14,623
   
14,119
 
Preferred securities of subsidiaries
   
89,246
   
89,540
 
               
Commitments and contingencies (Note 9)
             
               
Stockholders' equity:
             
Zero-coupon convertible preferred stock - authorized 50,000 shares, no par 
             
value, 41,263 shares issued and outstanding
   
-
   
-
 
  Common stock - authorized 60,000 shares, no par value, 9,081 shares issued   
             
and outstanding
   
-
   
-
 
Additional paid-in capital
   
1,950,663
   
1,950,663
 
Retained earnings
   
1,309,257
   
1,156,843
 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net
   
(166,243
)
 
(136,347
)
Total stockholders' equity
   
3,093,677
   
2,971,159
 
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
 
$
19,721,966
 
$
19,903,562
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
 
4


MIDAMERICAN ENERGY HOLDINGS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(Amounts in thousands)

   
Three Months
 
     
Ended March 31,   
 
     
2005
   
2004
 
 
 
(Unaudited)
               
Operating revenue
 
$
1,804,233
 
$
1,762,582
 
               
Costs and expenses:
             
Cost of sales
   
812,152
   
748,632
 
Operating expense
   
407,343
   
375,563
 
Depreciation and amortization
   
159,618
   
169,787
 
Total costs and expenses
   
1,379,113
   
1,293,982
 
               
Operating income
   
425,120
   
468,600
 
               
Other income (expense):
             
Interest expense
   
(231,595
)
 
(225,792
)
Capitalized interest
   
3,615
   
3,608
 
Interest and dividend income
   
8,414
   
7,168
 
Other income
   
20,983
   
8,367
 
Other expense
   
(3,886
)
 
(2,960
)
Total other income (expense)
   
(202,469
)
 
(209,609
)
  Income from continuing operations before income tax expense, minority interest              
and preferred dividends of subsidiaries and equity income
   
222,651
   
258,991
 
Income tax expense
   
73,951
   
98,357
 
Minority interest and preferred dividends of subsidiaries
   
2,851
   
2,753
 
Income from continuing operations before equity income
   
145,849
   
157,881
 
Equity income
   
4,891
   
3,468
 
Income from continuing operations
   
150,740
   
161,349
 
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income tax (Note 3)
   
1,674
   
(14,159
)
Net income available to common and preferred stockholders
 
$
152,414
 
$
147,190
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

5

 
MIDAMERICAN ENERGY HOLDINGS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Amounts in thousands)

   
Three Months
 
     
Ended March 31,  
 
     
2005
   
2004
 
 
 
(Unaudited)
Cash flows from operating activities:
             
Income from continuing operations
 
$
150,740
 
$
161,349
 
Adjustments to reconcile income from continuing operations to cash flows from  
             
continuing operations:
             
Distributions less income on equity investments
   
(1,474
)
 
(1,014
)
(Gain) loss on other items
   
(6,685
)
 
92
 
Depreciation and amortization
   
159,618
   
169,787
 
Amortization of regulatory assets and liabilities
   
20,620
   
1,976
 
Amortization of deferred financing costs
   
7,916
   
5,076
 
Provision for deferred income taxes
   
45,670
   
57,088
 
Other
   
14,074
   
18,266
 
Changes in other items:
             
Accounts receivable and other current assets
   
53,319
   
22,794
 
Accounts payable and other accrued liabilities
   
(53,292
)
 
77,341
 
Deferred income
   
(1,684
)
 
(1,307
)
Net cash flows from continuing operations
   
388,822
   
511,448
 
Net cash flows from discontinued operations
   
(172
)
 
(23,402
)
Net cash flows from operating activities
   
388,650
   
488,046
 
Cash flows from investing activities:
             
Capital expenditures relating to operating projects
   
(164,877
)
 
(128,334
)
Construction and other development costs
   
(63,356
)
 
(77,274
)
Purchases of available-for-sale securities
   
(660,437
)
 
(473,568
)
Proceeds from sales of available-for-sale securities
   
666,937
   
434,193
 
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired
   
(666
)
 
(807
)
Proceeds from note receivable
   
-
   
97,000
 
Proceeds from affiliate notes, net
   
-
   
9,964
 
Other
   
22,741
   
822
 
Net cash flows from continuing operations
   
(199,658
)
 
(138,004
)
Net cash flows from discontinued operations
   
2,810
   
(419
)
Net cash flows from investing activities
   
(196,848
)
 
(138,423
)
Cash flows from financing activities:
             
Proceeds from subsidiary and project debt
   
6,123
   
10,584
 
Proceeds from parent company senior debt
   
-
   
249,765
 
Repayments of subsidiary and project debt
   
(433,785
)
 
(33,239
)
Proceeds from (repayment of) subsidiary short-term debt, net
   
87
   
(45,061
)
Purchase and retirement of common stock
   
-
   
(20,000
)
(Increase) decrease in restricted cash and investments
   
3,352
   
(85,720
)
Redemption of preferred securities of subsidiaries
   
(294
)
 
(1,724
)
Other
   
(358
)
 
(3,531
)
Net cash flows from continuing operations
   
(424,875
)
 
71,074
 
Net cash flows from discontinued operations
   
186
   
(136,673
)
Net cash flows from financing activities
   
(424,689
)
 
(65,599
)
Effect of exchange rate changes
   
(5,545
)
 
6,842
 
Net change in cash and cash equivalents
   
(238,432
)
 
290,866
 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
   
837,353
   
587,689
 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
 
$
598,921
 
$
878,555
 
Supplemental Disclosure:
             
Interest paid, net of interest capitalized
 
$
236,626
 
$
225,671
 
Income taxes (refunded) paid
 
$
8,987
 
$
(74,620
)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
 
6

 
MIDAMERICAN ENERGY HOLDINGS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)

1.
General

In the opinion of the management of MidAmerican Energy Holdings Company and subsidiaries (“MEHC” or the “Company”), the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements contain all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) necessary to present fairly the financial position as of March 31, 2005, and the results of operations and cash flows for the three-month periods ended March 31, 2005 and 2004. The results of operations for the three-month period ended March 31, 2005 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year.

The unaudited consolidated financial statements include the accounts of MEHC and its wholly-owned subsidiaries except for certain trusts formed to hold trust preferred securities. Under Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Interpretation No. 46R, “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities, an interpretation of Accounting Research Bulletin No. 51” (“FIN 46R”), these trusts, by design, are considered variable interest entities, with no variable interest holder being considered the primary beneficiary, thus requiring the reporting entity to deconsolidate the trust. Subsidiaries which are less than 100% owned but greater than 50% owned are consolidated with a minority interest. Subsidiaries that are 50% owned or less, but where the Company has the ability to exercise significant influence, are accounted for under the equity method of accounting. Investments where the Company’s ability to influence is limited are accounted for under the cost method of accounting.

The Company's operations are organized and managed as seven distinct platforms: MidAmerican Energy Company ("MidAmerican Energy"), Kern River Gas Transmission Company ("Kern River"), Northern Natural Gas Company ("Northern Natural Gas"), CE Electric UK Funding Company ("CE Electric UK") (which includes Northern Electric Distribution Limited (“Northern Electric”) and Yorkshire Electricity Distribution plc (“Yorkshire Electricity”)), CalEnergy Generation-Foreign, CalEnergy Generation-Domestic and HomeServices of America, Inc. ("HomeServices").

The unaudited consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004. In particular, the Company’s significant accounting policies are presented in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements included therein. Additionally, amounts held in trust consist of separately designated trust accounts for homebuyers’ earnest money and other deposits. The Company holds such funds until sold properties are closed and subsequently disburses amounts in accordance with the settlement instructions.

Certain amounts in the prior period consolidated financial statements and supporting note disclosures have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation, including the reclassification of activity as discontinued operations (see Note 3) and the reclassification of auction rate securities. Such reclassifications did not impact previously reported net income or retained earnings.

The accompanying consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2004, reflects a reclassification of instruments used in the Company’s cash management program from cash and cash equivalents to short-term investments of $123.6 million. This reclassification is to present certain auction rate securities as short-term investments rather than as cash equivalents due to the stated maturities of these investments. These instruments are classified as available-for-sale securities as management does not intend to hold them to maturity nor are they bought and sold with the objective of generating profits on short-term differences in price. The carrying value of these instruments approximates their fair value. Additionally, in the accompanying consolidated statements of cash flows, cash and cash equivalents were reduced by $123.6 million, $99.3 million and $72.5 million at December 31, 2004, March 31, 2004 and December 31, 2003, respectively, to reflect the reclassification of these instruments from cash and cash equivalents to short-term investments.
 
7


2.
New Accounting Pronouncements

In March 2005, the FASB issued FASB Interpretation No. 47, “Accounting for Conditional Asset Retirement Obligations, an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 143” (“FIN 47”). FIN 47 clarifies that the term conditional asset retirement obligation as used in Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 143, “Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations”, refers to a legal obligation to perform an asset retirement activity in which the timing and (or) method of settlement are conditional on a future event that may or may not be within the control of the entity. Accordingly, an entity is required to recognize a liability for the fair value of a conditional asset retirement obligation if the fair value of the liability can be reasonably estimated. Uncertainty about the timing and (or) method of settlement of a conditional asset retirement obligation should be factored into the measurement of the liability when sufficient information exists. FIN 47 also clarifies when an entity would have sufficient information to reasonably estimate the fair value of an asset retirement obligation. MEHC is required to adopt the provisions of FIN 47 by December 2005. Adoption of FIN 47 is not expected to have a material effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

3.       Discontinued Operations - Zinc Recovery Project and Mineral Assets

On September 10, 2004, management made the decision to cease operations of a zinc recovery plant constructed near certain geothermal energy generation facilities (“the Zinc Recovery Project”). Based on this decision, the Zinc Recovery Project, rights to quantities of extractable minerals, and allocated goodwill (collectively, the “Mineral Assets”) were written off in the third quarter of fiscal 2004. The activity related to the Mineral Assets is classified separately as discontinued operations in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations and includes the following (in thousands):

   
Three Months Ended
 
   
March 31,
 
     
2005
   
2004
 
               
Operating revenue
 
$
-
 
$
721
 
               
Losses from discontinued operations
 
$
-
 
$
(23,928
)
Proceeds from disposal activities, net
   
2,835
   
-
 
Income tax (expense) benefit
   
(1,161
)
 
9,769
 
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax
 
$
1,674
 
$
(14,159
)

Implementation of a decommissioning plan began in September 2004 and has continued into 2005. Proceeds from the sale of the Zinc Recovery Project’s assets have exceeded the cost of disposal activities during the three months ended March 31, 2005. Salvage proceeds are recognized in the period earned. Costs are recognized in the period in which the related liability is incurred. The Company expects to make additional cash expenditures consisting of pre-tax disposal costs and property taxes of approximately $1 million.
 
8


4.
Properties, Plants and Equipment, Net

Properties, plants and equipment, net consists of the following (in thousands):

 
   
Depreciation
   
March 31,
   
December 31,
 
 
   
Life
   
2005
   
2004
 
                     
Utility generation and distribution system
   
10-50 years
 
$
10,104,467
 
$
10,149,818
 
Interstate pipelines’ assets
   
3-87 years
   
3,587,179
   
3,566,578
 
Independent power plants
   
10-30 years
   
1,383,999
   
1,384,660
 
Mineral and gas reserves and exploration assets
   
5-30 years
   
107,376
   
101,472
 
Utility non-operational assets
   
3-30 years
   
466,670
   
465,297
 
Other assets
   
3-10 years
   
170,820
   
167,150
 
Total operating assets
         
15,820,511
   
15,834,975
 
Accumulated depreciation and amortization
         
(4,920,355
)
 
(4,800,372
)
Net operating assets
         
10,900,156
   
11,034,603
 
Construction in progress
         
778,875
   
572,661
 
Properties, plants and equipment, net
       
$
11,679,031
 
$
11,607,264
 

5.
Equity Investments

Equity investments consist mainly of MEHC’s equity investment in CE Generation, LLC (“CE Generation”) and HomeServices’ equity investments in various entities that generally conduct title, mortgage and insurance activities primarily related to the brokerage business. The equity investment in CE Generation at March 31, 2005 and December 31, 2004 was $191.9 million and $188.7 million, respectively. During the three-month periods ended March 31, 2005 and 2004, MEHC recorded income from its investment in CE Generation of $2.8 million and $1.2 million, respectively. HomeServices’ equity investments at March 31, 2005 and December 31, 2004 totaled $17.5 million and $16.8 million, respectively. During the three-month periods ended March 31, 2005 and 2004, HomeServices recorded income from its equity investments of $2.1 million and $2.3 million, respectively.

6.
Other Income

Other income consists of the following (in thousands):

   
Three Months Ended
 
   
March 31,  
 
     
2005
   
2004
 
               
Gains on sales of investments and other assets
 
$
11,891
 
$
1,108
 
Allowance for equity funds used during construction
   
4,727
   
3,557
 
Corporate-owned life insurance income
   
707
   
901
 
Other
   
3,658
   
2,801
 
Total other income
 
$
20,983
 
$
8,367
 

9


7.
Debt Issuances, Redemptions, Maturities and Subsequent Events
 
In February 2005, a subsidiary of CE Electric UK exercised a call option to purchase, and then cancelled, its £155.0 million Variable Rate Reset Trust Securities, due in 2020. A charge to exercise the call option of $10.2 million was recognized in interest expense in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations.

On February 15, 2004, MidAmerican Energy’s 7% series of mortgage bonds, totaling $90.5 million, matured.

On April 4, 2005, CE Electric UK and certain of its subsidiaries entered into a five year, £100.0 million committed revolving credit facility agreement.

On April 14, 2005, Northern Natural Gas issued $100.0 million of 5.125% senior notes due May 1, 2015. The proceeds were used by Northern Natural Gas to repay its outstanding $100.0 million 6.875% senior notes due May 1, 2005 . Accordingly, the Company has reclassified the entire principal amount of the notes due May 1, 2005, as long-term debt in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet at March 31, 2005.

On May 5, 2005, Northern Electric Finance plc, an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of CE Electric UK, issued £150.0 million of 5.125% bonds due 2035, guaranteed by Northern Electric and guaranteed as to scheduled payments of principal and interest by Ambac Assurance UK Limited (“Ambac”). Additionally, on May 5, 2005, Yorkshire Electricity, a wholly-owned subsidiary of CE Electric UK, issued £200.0 million of 5.125% bonds due 2035, guaranteed as to scheduled payments of principal and interest by Ambac. In connection with the issuance of such bonds, CE Electric UK entered into agreements amending certain terms and conditions of its 7.25% bonds due 2022.

8.
Regulatory Matters

The following are updates to regulatory matters based upon changes that occurred during the three months ended March 31, 2005:

Kern River

On April 30, 2004, Kern River filed a general rate case with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (“FERC”) pursuant to the requirements of its prior rate case settlement. Under the procedural schedule adopted, unless the rate case is settled earlier, a hearing will be held on the issues in August 2005 followed by an administrative law judge decision that is scheduled for release in December 2005.

Northern Natural Gas

On March 25, 2005, as modified on April 22, 2005, Northern Natural Gas filed a stipulation and agreement with the FERC (the “Settlement”). The Settlement represents the agreement Northern Natural Gas reached with its customers to settle the base tariff rates in the consolidated cases. The Settlement provides for, among other things, rates designed to generate revenues on an annual basis above the base rates which were in effect as of October 31, 2003, as follows: $48 million for the period November 1, 2003 through October 31, 2004, $53 million for the period November 1, 2004 through October 31, 2005, $58 million for the period November 1, 2005 through October 31, 2006, and $62 million beginning November 1, 2006. The FERC administrative law judge must certify the Settlement to the FERC for approval. Within 60 days of a final order from the FERC approving the proposed Settlement, Northern Natural Gas will be required to make refunds with interest to its customers generally reflecting the difference between the rate increases implemented on November 1, 2003 and November 1, 2004 and the revenue generated using the settlement rates. A final order is expected in the third quarter of 2005.
 
10


9 .
Commitments and Contingencies

MidAmerican Energy

Air Quality

MidAmerican Energy’s generating facilities are subject to applicable provisions of the Clean Air Act and related air quality standards promulgated by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”). The Clean Air Act provides the framework for regulation of certain air emissions and permitting and monitoring associated with those emissions. MidAmerican Energy believes it is in material compliance with current air quality requirements.

The EPA has in recent years implemented more stringent national ambient air quality standards for ozone and new standards for fine particulate matter. These standards set the minimum level of air quality that must be met throughout the United States. Areas that achieve the standards, as determined by ambient monitoring, are characterized as being in attainment of the standard. Areas that fail to meet the standard are designated as being nonattainment areas. Generally, once an area has been designated as a nonattainment area, sources of emissions in the area that contribute to the failure to achieve the ambient air quality standards are required to make emissions reductions. The EPA has concluded that the entire state of Iowa is in attainment of the ozone standards and the fine particulate matter standards.

On March 10, 2005, the EPA released the final Clean Air Interstate Rule (“CAIR”), calling for reductions of sulfur dioxide (“SO 2 ”) and nitrogen oxides (“NO x ”) in the eastern United States through a market-based cap and trade system. While the state of Iowa has been determined to be in attainment of the ozone and fine particulate standards, Iowa has been found to significantly contribute to nonattainment of the fine particulate standard in Cook County, Illinois; Lake County, Indiana; Madison County, Illinois; St. Clair County, Illinois; and Marion County, Indiana. The EPA has also concluded that emissions from Iowa significantly contribute to ozone nonattainment in Kenosha and Sheboygan counties in Wisconsin and Macomb County, Michigan. Under the final CAIR, the first phase reductions of SO 2 emissions are effective on January 1, 2010, with the second phase reductions effective January 1, 2015. For NO x , the first phase emissions reductions are effective January 1, 2009 and the second phase reductions are effective January 1, 2015. The CAIR calls for overall reductions of SO 2 and NO x in Iowa of 68% and 67%, respectively, by 2015. The CAIR will impact MidAmerican Energy’s coal-burning generating facilities and will require MidAmerican Energy to either reduce emissions from those facilities through the installation of emission controls or purchase additional emission allowances, or some combination thereof.

On March 15, 2005, the EPA released the final Clean Air Mercury Rule (“CAMR”). The CAMR utilizes a market-based cap and trade mechanism to reduce mercury emissions from coal-burning power plants from the current nationwide level of 48 tons to 15 tons at full implementation. The CAMR’s two-phase reduction program requires initial reductions of mercury emission in 2010 and an overall reduction in mercury emissions from coal-burning power plants of 70% by 2018. The CAMR will impact MidAmerican Energy’s coal-burning generating facilities and will require MidAmerican Energy to either reduce emissions from those facilities through the installation of emission controls or purchase additional emission allowances, or some combination thereof.

The CAIR or the CAMR could, in whole or in part, be superseded or made more stringent by one of a number of multi-pollutant emission reduction proposals currently under consideration at the federal level, including the “Clear Skies Initiative,” and other pending legislative proposals that contemplate 70% to 90% reductions of SO 2 , NO X and mercury, as well as possible new federal regulation of carbon dioxide and other gases that may affect global climate change. In addition to any federal legislation that could be enacted by Congress to supersede the CAIR and the CAMR, the rules could be changed or overturned as a result of litigation.

MidAmerican Energy has implemented a planning process that forecasts the site-specific controls and actions that may be required to meet emissions reductions as promulgated by the EPA. In accordance with an Iowa law passed in 2001, MidAmerican Energy has on file with the IUB its current multi-year plan and budget for managing SO 2 and NO X from its generating facilities in a cost-effective manner. The plan, which is required to be updated every two years, provides specific actions to be taken at each coal-fired generating facility and the related costs and timing for each action. On July 17, 2003, the IUB issued an order that affirmed an administrative law judge’s approval of the initial plan filed April 1, 2002, as amended. On October 4, 2004, the IUB issued an order approving MidAmerican Energy’s second biennial plan as revised in a settlement MidAmerican Energy entered into with the OCA. That plan covers the time period from April 1, 2004 through December 31, 2006. Neither IUB order resulted in any changes to electric rates for MidAmerican Energy. The effect of the orders is to approve the prudence of expenditures made consistent with the plans. Pursuant to an unrelated rate settlement agreement approved by the IUB on October 17, 2003, if prior to January 1, 2011, capital and operating expenditures to comply with environmental requirements cumulatively exceed $325 million, then MidAmerican Energy may seek to recover the additional expenditures from customers. Based on a review of the final CAIR and CAMR, MidAmerican Energy does not expect the qualified expenditures to exceed $325 million through January 1, 2011.
 
11

 
Under the New Source Review (“NSR”) provisions of the Clean Air Act, a utility is required to obtain a permit from the EPA or a state regulatory agency prior to (1) beginning construction of a new major stationary source of an NSR-regulated pollutant or (2) making a physical or operational change to an existing facility that potentially increases emissions, unless the changes are exempt under the regulations (including routine maintenance, repair and replacement of equipment). In general, projects subject to NSR regulations are subject to pre-construction review and permitting under the Prevention of Significant Deterioration (“PSD”) provisions of the Clean Air Act. Under the PSD program, a project that emits threshold levels of regulated pollutants must undergo a Best Available Control Technology analysis and evaluate the most effective emissions controls. These controls must be installed in order to receive a permit. Violations of NSR regulations, which may be alleged by the EPA, states, and environmental groups, among others, potentially subject a utility to material expenses for fines and other sanctions and remedies including requiring installation of enhanced pollution controls and funding supplemental environmental projects.

In recent years, the EPA has requested from several utilities information and support regarding their capital projects for various generating plants. The requests were issued as part of an industry-wide investigation to assess compliance with the NSR and the New Source Performance Standards of the Clean Air Act. In December 2002 and April 2003, MidAmerican Energy received requests from the EPA to provide documentation related to its capital projects from January 1, 1980, to April 2003 for a number of its generating plants. MidAmerican Energy has submitted information to the EPA in responses to these requests, and there are currently no outstanding data requests pending from the EPA. MidAmerican Energy cannot predict the outcome of these requests at this time. However, on August 27, 2003, the EPA announced changes to its NSR rules that clarify what constitutes routine repair, maintenance and replacement for purposes of triggering NSR requirements. The EPA concluded equipment that is repaired, maintained or replaced with an expenditure not greater than 20 percent of the value of the source will not trigger the NSR provisions of the Clean Air Act. A number of states and local air districts challenged the EPA’s clarifications of the NSR rule, and a panel of the United States Circuit Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia issued an order on December 24, 2003, staying the EPA’s implementation of its clarifications of the equipment replacement rule. On July 1, 2004, the EPA published a notice of stay of the final equipment replacement rule in the Federal Register, consistent with the judicial stay. Additionally, on the same date, the EPA published a Notice of Reconsideration and Request for Comment on the equipment replacement rule in response to the Petitioners’ legal challenges. Until such time as the EPA takes final action on the equipment replacement rule, the previous rules without the clarified exemption remain in effect.

Nuclear Decommissioning

Expected decommissioning costs for Quad Cities Station have been developed based on a site-specific decommissioning study that includes decontamination, dismantling, site restoration, dry fuel storage cost and an assumed shutdown date. Quad Cities Station decommissioning costs are included in base rates in Iowa tariffs.

MidAmerican Energy's share of expected decommissioning costs for Quad Cities Station, in 2004 dollars, is $154.0 million and is the asset retirement obligation for Quad Cities Station. MidAmerican Energy has established trusts for the investment of funds for decommissioning the Quad Cities Station. The fair value of the assets held in the trusts as of March 31, 2005 and December 31, 2004, was $213.8 million and $207.5 million, respectively, and is reflected in deferred charges and other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.

CalEnergy Generation-Foreign - Proposed Value-Added Tax Legislation

The Philippine House and Senate each has passed a bill which reimposes value-added tax on electricity, but prohibits certain electricity generators from passing on the value-added tax to their customers. The House and Senate bills are being reconciled in a Philippine congressional bicameral conference committee. If signed into law, a final bill prohibiting MEHC’s subsidiaries that own (i) the Upper Mahiao, Malitbog and Mahanagdong Projects (collectively the “Leyte Projects”) from invoicing the Philippine National Oil Company-Energy Development Corporation (“PNOC-EDC”), and (ii) the Casecnan Project from invoicing the Republic of the Philippines National Irrigation Administration (“NIA”) for, and getting paid, value-added tax may trigger the change in law provisions of the Leyte Projects' energy conversion agreements and the Casecnan Project's project agreement. The Leyte Projects' energy conversion agreements and the Casecnan Project's project agreement change in law provisions require PNOC-EDC and NIA, respectively, to negotiate amendments to those agreements which would keep MEHC’s subsidiaries that own the Leyte Projects and the Casecnan Project whole for the adverse impact of such a change in law. The Company believes that a failure by PNOC-EDC and NIA to agree to such amendments would entitle the Company to demand that the Philippine government purchase its interests in the Leyte Projects and the Casecnan Project, each at a price equal to the net present value of the energy (and, in the case of the Casecnan Project, water) fee payments over the remaining terms of the Leyte Projects' energy conversion agreements and Casecnan Project's project agreement. PNOC-EDC, NIA and the Philippine government may challenge any efforts by the Company to demand that its interests be so purchased. The Company is closely monitoring developments in this regard in the Philippines, and intends to vigorously defend its rights should a final bill containing a no pass through provision be signed into law.
 
12

 
Legal Matters

In addition to the proceeding described below, the Company is currently party to various items of litigation or arbitration in the normal course of business, none of which are reasonably expected by the Company to have a material adverse effect on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

CalEnergy Generation-Foreign

Pursuant to the share ownership adjustment mechanism in the CE Casecnan Water and Energy Company, Inc. (“CE Casecnan”) stockholder agreement, which is based upon proforma financial projections of the Casecnan project prepared following commencement of commercial operations, in February 2002, MEHC’s indirect wholly-owned subsidiary, CE Casecnan Ltd., advised the minority stockholder of CE Casecnan, LaPrairie Group Contractors (International) Ltd. (“LPG”), that MEHC’s indirect ownership interest in CE Casecnan had increased to 100% effective from commencement of commercial operations. On July 8, 2002, LPG filed a complaint in the Superior Court of the State of California, City and County of San Francisco against, among others, CE Casecnan Ltd. and MEHC. On January 21, 2004, CE Casecnan Ltd., LPG and CE Casecnan entered into a status quo agreement pursuant to which the parties agreed to set aside certain distributions related to the shares subject to the LPG dispute and CE Casecnan agreed not to take any further actions with respect to such distributions without at least 15 days prior notice to LPG. Accordingly, 15% of the CE Casecnan dividend declarations in 2004, totaling to $15.9 million ($8.0 million in the first quarter of 2004), was set aside by CE Casecnan in a separate bank account in the name of CE Casecnan and is shown as restricted cash and short-term investments and other current liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets at March 31, 2005 and December 31, 2004, respectively. The court is currently expected to rule on the first phase of the litigation before the end of the second quarter of 2005. The impact, if any, of this litigation on the Company cannot be determined at this time.

10.
Comprehensive Income

The differences from net income to total comprehensive income for the Company are due to foreign currency translation adjustments, minimum pension liability adjustments, unrealized holding gains and losses of marketable securities during the periods, and the effective portion of net gains and losses of derivative instruments classified as cash flow hedges. Total comprehensive income for the Company is shown in the table below (in thousands):

   
Three Months
 
   
Ended March 31,
 
   
2005
 
2004
 
               
Net income
 
$
152,414
 
$
147,190
 
Other comprehensive income (loss):
             
Foreign currency translation
   
(24,338
)
 
39,749
 
Minimum pension liability, net of tax of $(477) and $(2,325), respectively
   
486
   
(5,424
)
Marketable securities, net of tax of $(72) and $72,   respectively
   
(108
)
 
108
 
Cash flow hedges, net of tax of $(2,733) and $1,211, respectively
   
(5,936
)
 
2,766
 
Total comprehensive income
 
$
122,518
 
$
184,389
 
 
13


11.
Retirement Plans

Domestic Operations

MidAmerican Energy sponsors a noncontributory defined benefit pension plan covering substantially all employees of MEHC and its domestic energy subsidiaries. MidAmerican Energy also sponsors certain postretirement health care and life insurance benefits covering substantially all retired employees of MEHC and its domestic energy subsidiaries. Non-union employees hired after June 30, 2004, are not eligible for postretirement benefits other than pensions. Net periodic benefit cost for the pension, including supplemental retirement, and postretirement benefit plans included the following components for MEHC and its domestic energy subsidiaries for the three-month periods ended March 31 (in thousands):

   
Pension
 
Postretirement
 
   
2005
 
2004
 
2005
 
2004
 
                           
Service cost
 
$
6,687
 
$
6,598
 
$
1,648
 
$
1,962
 
Interest cost
   
9,172
   
8,700
   
3,589
   
4,183
 
Expected return on plan assets
   
(9,527
)
 
(9,634
)
 
(2,321
)
 
(1,861
)
Amortization of net transition balance
   
-
   
(198
)
 
614
   
1,028
 
Amortization of prior service cost
   
671
   
687
   
-
   
148
 
Amortization of prior year loss
   
409
   
419
   
421
   
834
 
Net periodic benefit cost
 
$
7,412
 
$
6,572
 
$
3,951
 
$
6,294
 

MEHC expects to contribute $6.6 million and $15.8 million in 2005 to its pension and postretirement plans, respectively. As of March 31, 2005, $1.4 million and $4.3 million of contributions have been made to the pension and postretirement plans, respectively.

United Kingdom Operations

Certain wholly-owned subsidiaries of CE Electric UK participate in the Electricity Supply Pension Scheme, which provides pension and other related defined benefits, based on final pensionable pay, to substantially all employees throughout the electricity supply industry in the United Kingdom. Net periodic benefit cost for the pension plan included the following components for CE Electric UK for the three-month periods ended March 31 (in thousands):

   
2005
 
2004
 
               
Service cost
 
$
3,972
 
$
3,045
 
Interest cost
   
19,862
   
18,503
 
Expected return on plan assets
   
(25,158
)
 
(24,778
)
Amortization of prior service cost
   
508
   
415
 
Amortization of prior year loss
   
5,566
   
4,245
 
Net periodic benefit cost
 
$
4,750
 
$
1,430
 

CE Electric UK and its subsidiaries propose to contribute $52.9 million in 2005 to its pension plan, including $32.0 million for the existing funding deficiency. As of March 31, 2005, $7.2 million of contributions have been made to the pension plan. Payments for the existing funding deficiency began in April 2005. Discussions on the appropriate level of contributions continue with the plan trustee in accordance with the UK plan rules.

14


12.
Segment Information

The Company has identified seven reportable segments: MidAmerican Energy, Kern River, Northern Natural Gas, CE Electric UK, CalEnergy Generation-Foreign, CalEnergy Generation-Domestic, and HomeServices. The Company’s determination of reportable segments considers the strategic units under which the Company is managed. The Company’s foreign reportable segments include CE Electric UK and CalEnergy Generation-Foreign. The reportable segment financial information includes all necessary adjustments and eliminations needed to conform to the Company’s significant accounting policies including the allocation of goodwill. Additionally, the activity of the Company’s Mineral Assets, which was previously reported in the CalEnergy Generation-Domestic reportable segment, is presented as discontinued operations within the accompanying consolidated financial statements. Information related to the Company’s reportable segments is shown below (in thousands):

   
Three Months
 
   
Ended March 31,
 
   
2005
 
2004
 
Operating revenue:
             
MidAmerican Energy
 
$
856,278
 
$
840,946
 
Kern River
   
78,576
   
75,613
 
Northern Natural Gas
   
201,201
   
208,387
 
CE Electric UK
   
239,217
   
262,608
 
CalEnergy Generation-Foreign
   
72,241
   
69,591
 
CalEnergy Generation-Domestic
   
7,929
   
11,180
 
HomeServices
   
362,260
   
314,686
 
Total reportable segments
   
1,817,702
   
1,783,011
 
Corporate/other (1)
   
(13,469
)
 
(20,429
)
Total operating revenue
 
$
1,804,233
 
$
1,762,582
 
               
Depreciation and amortization:
             
MidAmerican Energy
 
$
63,779
 
$
82,888
 
Kern River
   
15,582
   
11,412
 
Northern Natural Gas
   
17,163
   
16,463
 
CE Electric UK
   
35,651
   
32,240
 
CalEnergy Generation-Foreign
   
22,684
   
22,634
 
CalEnergy Generation-Domestic
   
2,186
   
2,178
 
HomeServices
   
4,287
   
3,733
 
Total reportable segments
   
161,332
   
171,548
 
Corporate/other (1)
   
(1,714
)
 
(1,761
)
Total depreciation and amortization
 
$
159,618
 
$
169,787
 

15


   
Three Months
 
   
Ended March 31,
 
   
2005
 
2004
 
Operating income:
             
MidAmerican Energy
 
$
99,351
 
$
111,067
 
Kern River
   
49,012
   
50,054
 
Northern Natural Gas
   
111,725
   
116,201
 
CE Electric UK
   
125,680
   
152,442
 
CalEnergy Generation-Foreign
   
43,866
   
41,601
 
CalEnergy Generation-Domestic
   
4,369
   
4,678
 
HomeServices
   
8,122
   
7,812
 
Total reportable segments
   
442,125
   
483,855
 
Corporate/other (1)
   
(17,005
)
 
(15,255
)
Total operating income
   
425,120
   
468,600
 
Interest expense
   
(231,595
)
 
(225,792
)
Capitalized interest
   
3,615
   
3,608
 
Interest and dividend income
   
8,414
   
7,168
 
Other income
   
20,983
   
8,367
 
Other expense
   
(3,886
)
 
(2,960
)
Total income from continuing operations before income tax expense
 
$
222,651
 
$
258,991
 
               
Interest expense:
             
MidAmerican Energy
 
$
33,776
 
$
30,591
 
Kern River
   
18,495
   
19,535
 
Northern Natural Gas
   
13,261
   
13,124
 
CE Electric UK
   
59,622
   
48,798
 
CalEnergy Generation-Foreign
   
8,639
   
11,259
 
CalEnergy Generation-Domestic
   
4,617
   
4,794
 
HomeServices
   
614
   
705
 
Total reportable segments
   
139,024
   
128,806
 
Corporate/other (1)
   
92,571
   
96,986
 
Total interest expense
 
$
231,595
 
$
225,792
 
 
Income from continuing operations before income tax expense:
             
MidAmerican Energy
 
$
82,692
 
$
88,554
 
Kern River
   
30,290
   
30,472
 
Northern Natural Gas
   
100,111
   
102,656
 
CE Electric UK
   
70,292
   
109,206
 
CalEnergy Generation-Foreign
   
41,618
   
33,789
 
CalEnergy Generation-Domestic
   
40
   
(23
)
HomeServices
   
8,172
   
7,353
 
Total reportable segments
   
333,215
   
372,007
 
Corporate/other (1)
   
(110,564
)
 
(113,016
)
Total income from continuing operations before   income tax expense
 
$
222,651
 
$
258,991
 

16

 
           
 
 
March 31,
 
December 31,
 
   
2005
 
2004
 
Total assets:  
             
MidAmerican Energy
 
$
7,316,642
 
$
7,274,999
 
Kern River
   
2,117,016
   
2,135,265
 
Northern Natural Gas
   
2,335,400
   
2,200,846
 
CE Electric UK
   
5,500,302
   
5,794,887
 
CalEnergy Generation-Foreign
   
766,829
   
767,465
 
CalEnergy Generation-Domestic
   
561,586
   
553,741
 
HomeServices
   
767,356
   
724,592
 
Total reportable segments
   
19,365,131
   
19,451,795
 
Corporate/other (1)
   
356,835
   
451,767
 
Total assets
 
$
19,721,966
 
$
19,903,562
 

(1)
The remaining differences between the segment amounts and the consolidated amounts described as “Corporate/other” relate principally to the corporate functions including administrative costs, interest expense, corporate cash and related interest income, intersegment eliminations and fair value adjustments relating to acquisitions.

Goodwill as of December 31, 2004 and changes for the three month period ended March 31, 2005 by reportable segment are as follows (in thousands):

       
Northern
CE
CalEnergy
   
   
MidAmerican
Kern
Natural
Electric
Generation
Home-
 
   
Energy
River
Gas
UK
Domestic
Services
Total
                 
Goodwill at December 31, 2004
 
$   2,121,125
$   33,900
$ 354,912
$ 1,329,791
$ 72,494
$ 394,529
$ 4,306,751
Goodwill from acquisitions during the year
 
-
-
-
-
-
376
376
Other goodwill adjustments (1)
 
(9 )
-
(6,455 )
(15,529 )
(1 )
(1 )
(21,995 )
Goodwill at March 31, 2005
 
$ 2,121,116
$ 33,900
$ 348,457
$ 1,314,262
$ 72,493
$ 394,904
$ 4,285,132

(1)
Other goodwill adjustments include income tax and foreign currency translation adjustments .

17


Item 2.

The following is management’s discussion and analysis of certain significant factors which have affected the financial condition and results of operations of MidAmerican Energy Holdings Company (“MEHC” or the “Company”), during the periods included in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations. This discussion should be read in conjunction with the Company’s historical financial statements and the notes to those statements. The Company’s actual results in the future could differ significantly from the historical results.

Forward-Looking Statements

From time to time, the Company may make forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws that involve judgments, assumptions and other uncertainties beyond the control of the Company or any of its subsidiaries individually. These forward-looking statements may include, among others, statements concerning revenue, production and cost trends, cost recovery, cost reduction and rate case strategies and anticipated outcomes, pricing strategies, changes in the utility industry, planned capital expenditures, financing needs and availability, statements of MEHC’s expectations, beliefs, future plans and strategies, anticipated events or trends and similar comments concerning matters that are not historical facts. These types of forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and involve a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause the actual results and performance of the Company to differ materially from any expected future results or performance, expressed or implied, by the forward-looking statements. In connection with the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, MEHC has identified important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expectations, including weather effects on revenues and other operating uncertainties, uncertainties relating to economic and political conditions and uncertainties regarding the impact of regulations, changes in government policy and competition. The Company does not assume any responsibility to update forward-looking information contained herein.

Executive Summary

MEHC, through its subsidiaries, owns and operates a combined electric and natural gas utility company in the United States, two natural gas pipeline companies in the United States, two electricity distribution companies in the United Kingdom, a diversified portfolio of domestic and international independent power projects and the second largest residential real estate brokerage firm in the United States. These businesses are organized and managed as seven distinct platforms: MidAmerican Energy Company (“MidAmerican Energy”), Kern River Gas Transmission Company (“Kern River”), Northern Natural Gas Company (“Northern Natural Gas”), CE Electric UK Funding Company (“CE Electric UK”) (which includes Northern Electric Distribution Limited (“Northern Electric”) and Yorkshire Electricity Distribution plc (“Yorkshire Electricity”)), CalEnergy Generation-Foreign, CalEnergy Generation-Domestic and HomeServices of America, Inc. (“HomeServices”). These platforms are discussed in detail in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004.

The following events and changes highlight some factors that affect the comparability of our financial results for the three-month periods ended March 31, 2005 and 2004:
 
·        
CE Electric UK’s operating income for the three months ended March 31, 2005, decreased $26.7 million, or 17.5%, to $125.7 million from $152.4 million for the same period in 2004.  Operating revenue decreased $23.4 million, or 8.9%, to $239.2 million from $262.6 million for the same period in 2004 due to lower distribution revenue at both Northern Electric and Yorkshire Electricity, partially offset by the impact of the exchange rate between U.S. Dollars and Pounds Sterling. During the three months ended March 31, 2004, Northern Electric recognized above normal distribution revenue of $9.4 million related to additional units distributed during the regulatory year ended March 31, 2004. Additionally, distribution revenue decreased in 2005 due to actual billings being lower than the allowed income at each distribution company, resulting in an under recovered position at March 31, 2005. This position is expected to reverse over the next twelve months, as the tariffs charged to customers were adjusted beginning April 1, 2005.

·        
MidAmerican Energy’s operating income for the three months ended March 31, 2005, decreased $11.7 million, or 10.5%, to $99.4 million from $111.1 million for the same period in 2004.  Regulated electric revenue decreased $50.6 million, or 13.9%, to $312.6 million from $363.2 million for the same period in 2004.  This decrease is primarily due to a 43.7% decrease in wholesale sales volumes resulting in lower wholesale operating revenue of  $43.0 million and lower wholesale margins of $19.2 million.  The timing of planned generation outages, mainly for the Louisa Generation Station, and the loss of generating capacity at the Ottumwa Generating Station Unit No.1 (“OGS Unit No. 1”), which experienced a failure of its step-up transformer on February 20, 2005, resulted in lost wholesale sales opportunities and required MidAmerican Energy to generate or purchase more costly replacement power.  OGS Unit No. 1 returned to service on May 3, 2005.  Additionally, a change in the mix of higher priced on-peak and lower priced off-peak sales caused a decrease in the average electric wholesale price per megawatt-hour, reducing regulated electric revenue by $10.1 million.  Total regulated electric cost of sales decreased $25.4 million due mainly to the decrease in wholesale sales volumes and lower charges for electric capacity, partially offset by an increase in the average wholesale cost per megawatt-hour.
 
18


The regulatory expense related to the Iowa revenue sharing arrangement decreased by $20.5 million. Amounts under the arrangement are determined based upon Iowa electric returns on equity which were unfavorably impacted by the lower wholesale revenue. Iowa revenue sharing is recorded as depreciation and amortization in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.

·        
In February 2005, a subsidiary of CE Electric UK exercised a call option to purchase, and then cancelled, its £155.0 million Variable Rate Reset Trust Securities, due in 2020. A charge to exercise the call option of $10.2 million was recognized in interest expense in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations.

·        
Other income increased mainly due to $9.9 million of gains recorded on the sale of interests in two non-strategic, passive investments.

Results of Operations for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2005 and 2004

Consolidated Overview

MEHC’s income from continuing operations for the three months ended March 31, 2005 decreased $10.6 million, or 6.6%, to $150.7 million compared with $161.3 million for the same period in 2004. The decrease is mainly due to lower operating income at CE Electric UK and MidAmerican Energy and higher consolidated interest expense, partially offset by gains from the sale of interests in two non-strategic, passive investments and lower consolidated income tax expense.

The income from discontinued operations, net of income tax, of $1.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2005, reflects the proceeds received from the sale of assets, partially offset by the disposal costs incurred, in connection with the September 2004 decision to cease the operations of a zinc recovery plant, which had been constructed near certain geothermal energy generation facilities (“the Zinc Recovery Project”). The $14.2 million loss from discontinued operations, net of income tax, for the three months ended March 31, 2004, reflects the operating loss incurred at the Zinc Recovery Project during the period.

Operating revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2005, increased $41.6 million, or 2.4%, to $1,804.2 million from $1,762.6 million for the same period in 2004. The increase is mainly due to higher operating revenue at HomeServices and MidAmerican Energy of $47.6 million and $15.4 million, respectively, partially offset by lower operating revenue at CE Electric UK of $23.4 million.

Cost of sales for the three months ended March 31, 2005, increased $63.6 million, or 8.5%, to $812.2 million from $748.6 million for the same period in 2004. The increase is mainly due to higher cost of sales at MidAmerican Energy and HomeServices of $42.3 million and $35.1 million, respectively.

Operating expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2005, increased $31.7 million, or 8.4%, to $407.3 million from $375.6 million for the same period in 2004. The increase is mainly due to higher operating expenses at Northern Natural Gas, HomeServices and MidAmerican Energy of $13.4 million, $11.6 million and $3.9 million, respectively.

Depreciation and amortization for the three months ended March 31, 2005, decreased $10.2 million to $159.6 million from $169.8 million for the same period in 2004. The decrease is primarily due to lower depreciation and amortization at MidAmerican Energy of $19.1 million, partially offset by higher depreciation and amortization at Kern River and CE Electric UK of $4.2 million and $3.4 million, respectively.

Interest expense for the three months ended March 31, 2005, increased $5.8 million to $231.6 million from $225.8 million for the same period in 2004. The increase is mainly due to the $10.2 million charge to exercise the call option on the £155.0 million Variable Rate Reset Trust Securities at CE Electric UK and additional interest expense on MEHC’s 5.00%, $250.0 million senior notes issued in February 2004 and MidAmerican Energy’s 4.65%, $350.0 million notes issued in October 2004. These increases were partially offset by lower interest expense resulting from maturities of and principal repayments on parent company subordinated debt and subsidiary and project debt.

Other income for the three months ended March 31, 2005, increased $12.6 million to $21.0 million from $8.4 million for the same period in 2004. The increase is primarily due to gains from the sale of interests in two non-strategic, passive investments of $9.9 million and an increase in the allowance for equity funds used during construction.
 
19


Income tax expense for the three months ended March 31, 2005, decreased $24.4 million to $74.0 million from $98.4 million for the same period in 2004. The effective tax rate decreased from 38.0% in 2004 to 33.2% in 2005. The lower effective rate is mainly due to the effects of production tax credits associated with the wind project on MidAmerican Energy’s effective rate, lower income taxes on foreign earnings and the favorable resolution of certain income tax positions.

Segment Operations

The reportable segment financial information includes all necessary adjustments and eliminations needed to conform to the Company’s significant accounting policies. The differences between the segment amounts and the consolidated amounts described as “Corporate/other” relate principally to the corporate functions including administrative costs, intersegment eliminations and fair value adjustments relating to acquisitions. Additionally, the activity of the Company’s Mineral Assets, which was previously reported in the CalEnergy Generation-Domestic reportable segment, is presented as discontinued operations within the consolidated financial statements included in Item 1. “Financial Statements” of this Form 10-Q. Operating revenue and operating income for each of the Company’s reportable segments is shown below and detailed discussions follow (in millions):

   
Three Months
 
   
Ended March 31,
 
   
2005
 
2004
 
Operating revenue:
             
MidAmerican Energy
 
$
856.3
 
$
840.9
 
Kern River
   
78.6
   
75.6
 
Northern Natural Gas
   
201.2
   
208.4
 
CE Electric UK
   
239.2
   
262.6
 
CalEnergy Generation-Foreign
   
72.2
   
69.6
 
CalEnergy Generation-Domestic
   
7.9
   
11.2
 
HomeServices
   
362.3
   
314.7
 
Total reportable segments
   
1,817.7
   
1,783.0
 
Corporate/other
   
(13.5
)
 
(20.4
)
Total operating revenue
 
$
1,804.2
 
$
1,762.6
 
               
Operating income:
             
MidAmerican Energy
 
$
99.4
 
$
111.1
 
Kern River
   
49.0
   
50.1
 
Northern Natural Gas
   
111.7
   
116.2
 
CE Electric UK
   
125.7
   
152.4
 
CalEnergy Generation-Foreign
   
43.9
   
41.6
 
CalEnergy Generation-Domestic
   
4.4
   
4.7
 
HomeServices
   
8.1
   
7.8
 
Total reportable segments
   
442.2
   
483.9
 
Corporate/other
   
(17.1
)
 
(15.3
)
Total operating income
 
$
425.1
 
$
468.6
 

20


MidAmerican Energy

MidAmerican Energy’s operating income for the three months ended March 31, 2005, decreased $11.7 million, or 10.5%, to $99.4 million from $111.1 million for the same period in 2004 as follows (in millions):

   
Three Months
 
   
Ended March 31,
 
   
2005
 
2004
 
Operating revenue:
             
Regulated electric
 
$
312.6
 
$
363.2
 
Regulated gas
   
467.5
   
393.5
 
Non-regulated
   
76.2
   
84.2
 
Total operating revenue
   
856.3
   
840.9
 
Cost of sales:
             
Regulated electric
   
88.8
   
114.2
 
Regulated gas
   
387.0
   
310.8
 
Non-regulated
   
66.6
   
75.1
 
Total cost of sales
   
542.4
   
500.1
 
Margin:
             
Regulated electric
   
223.8
   
249.0
 
Regulated gas
   
80.5
   
82.7
 
Non-regulated
   
9.6
   
9.1
 
Total margin
   
313.9
   
340.8
 
Operating expense
   
150.7
   
146.8
 
Depreciation expense
   
63.8
   
82.9
 
Operating income
 
$
99.4
 
$
111.1
 

Regulated electric revenue decreased $50.6 million, or 13.9%, to $312.6 million from $363.2 million for the same period in 2004. This decrease is primarily due to a 43.7% decrease in wholesale sales volumes resulting in lower wholesale operating revenue of $43.0 million and lower wholesale margins of $19.2 million. The timing of planned generation outages, mainly for the Louisa Generation Station, and the loss of generating capacity at the OGS Unit No. 1, which experienced a failure of its step-up transformer on February 20, 2005, resulted in lost wholesale sales opportunities and required MidAmerican Energy to generate or purchase more costly replacement power.   OGS Unit No. 1 returned to service on May 3, 2005 . Additionally, a change in the mix of higher priced on-peak and lower priced off-peak sales caused a decrease in the average electric wholesale price per megawatt-hour, reducing regulated electric revenue by $10.1 million. Total regulated electric cost of sales decreased $25.4 million due mainly to the decrease in wholesale sales volumes and lower charges for electric capacity, partially offset by an increase in the average wholesale cost per megawatt-hour.

Regulated natural gas revenues, which include purchased gas adjustment clauses through which MidAmerican Energy is allowed to recover the cost of gas sold from its retail gas utility customers, increased $74.0 million, or 18.8%, to $467.5 million from $393.5 million. This increase is mainly due to a 22.1% increase in the average per-unit price of natural gas resulting in $68.6 million of additional retail operating revenue, a 26.1% increase in wholesale volumes that contributed $22.1 million to the increase, and higher wholesale natural gas prices which accounted for $9.4 million of the increase. These increases were partially offset by a reduction of regulated natural gas revenues of $25.3 million from lower retail volumes. Total regulated natural gas cost of sales increased $76.2 million due to the same factors affecting operating revenue.

Non-regulated revenues decreased $8.0 million, or 9.5%, to $76.2 million from $84.2 million. This decrease is primarily due to a 34.9% decrease in retail gas volumes. The resulting $24.6 million decrease in non-regulated natural gas revenues is due in large part to the non-renewal of sales contracts in Illinois. This decrease was partially offset by higher natural gas retail prices and electric retail prices which resulted in increased non-regulated revenues of $10.3 million and $6.8 million, respectively. Total non-regulated cost of sales decreased $8.5 million due to the same factors affecting operating revenue.

Operating expenses increased $3.9 million, mainly due to higher fossil fuel generating and distribution maintenance. Depreciation and amortization decreased $19.1 million due to a decrease in regulatory expense related to a revenue sharing arrangement in Iowa due to lower Iowa electric returns on equity.
 
21


Northern Natural Gas

Northern Natural Gas’ operating income for the three months ended March 31, 2005, decreased $4.5 million, or 3.9%, to $111.7 million from $116.2 million for the same period in 2004. This decrease was primarily a result of the system levelized account settlement approved by the FERC in February 2005. As part of the settlement, adjustments were made to increase operating revenue by $13.3 million and regulatory amortization, which is included in operating expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations, by $16.3 million to reflect the impact of the settlement from November 2003.

CE Electric UK

CE Electric UK’s operating income for the three months ended March 31, 2005, decreased $26.7 million, or 17.5%, to $125.7 million from $152.4 million for the same period in 2004. Operating revenue decreased $23.4 million, or 8.9%, to $239.2 million from $262.6 million for the same period in 2004 due to lower distribution revenue at both Northern Electric and Yorkshire Electricity, partially offset by the impact of the exchange rate between U.S. Dollars and Pounds Sterling. During the three months ended March 31, 2004, Northern Electric recognized above normal distribution revenue of $9.4 million related to additional units distributed during the regulatory year ended March 31, 2004. Additionally, distribution revenue decreased in 2005 due to actual billings being lower than the allowed income at each distribution company, resulting in an under recovered position at March 31, 2005. This position is expected to reverse over the next twelve months, as the tariffs charged to customers were adjusted beginning April 1, 2005.

CalEnergy Generation-Foreign

CalEnergy Generation-Foreign’s operating income for the three months ended March 31, 2005, increased $2.3 million, or 5.5%, to $43.9 million from $41.6 million for the same period in 2004. Operating revenue increased $2.6 million, or 3.7%, to $72.2 million from $69.6 million for the same period in 2004, mainly due to modest revenue increases at all four facilities.

CalEnergy Generation-Domestic

CalEnergy Generation-Domestic’s operating income for the three months ended March 31, 2005, decreased $0.3 million, or 6.4%, to $4.4 million from $4.7 million for the same period in 2004. Operating revenue decreased $3.3 million, or 29.5%, to $7.9 million from $11.2 million for the same period in 2004 due to the expiration of the Cordova project’s capacity contract with MidAmerican Energy. Operating expenses decreased $2.9 million due to the performance of major maintenance at the Cordova project in 2004.

HomeServices

HomeServices’ operating income for the three months ended March 31, 2005, increased $0.3 million, or 3.8%, to $8.1 million from $7.8 million for the same period in 2004. Operating revenue consisting mainly of commission revenue from real estate brokerage transactions increased $47.6 million, or 15.1%, to $362.3 million from $314.7 million for the same period in 2004. The increase is due to growth from existing businesses totaling $29.0 million reflecting higher average sales prices and acquisitions not included in the comparable 2004 period totaling $18.6 million.

Cost of sales, consisting primarily of commissions on real estate brokered transactions, increased $35.1 million, mainly due to higher commission expense on incremental sales at existing business units and acquisitions not included in the comparable 2004 period. Operating expenses, consisting mainly of compensation, marketing and other administrative costs, increased $11.6 million, mainly due to acquisitions not included in the comparable 2004 period and higher marketing and occupancy expenses at other business units.

22


Liquidity and Capital Resources

The Company has available a variety of sources of liquidity and capital resources, both internal and external. These resources provide funds required for current operations, construction expenditures, debt retirement and other capital requirements. The Company may from time to time seek to retire its outstanding securities through cash purchases in the open market, privately negotiated transactions or otherwise. Such repurchases or exchanges, if any, will depend on prevailing market conditions, the Company’s liquidity requirements, contractual restrictions and other factors. The amounts involved may be material.

Consolidated cash and cash equivalents were $598.9 million at March 31, 2005, compared to $837.4 million at December 31, 2004. Each of MEHC’s direct or indirect subsidiaries is organized as a legal entity separate and apart from MEHC and its other subsidiaries. Pursuant to separate financing agreements at each subsidiary, the assets of each subsidiary may be pledged or encumbered to support or otherwise provide the security for their own project or subsidiary debt. It should not be assumed that any asset of any subsidiary of MEHC will be available to satisfy the obligations of MEHC or any of its other subsidiaries; provided, however, that unrestricted cash or other assets which are available for distribution may, subject to applicable law and the terms of financing arrangements for such parties, be advanced, loaned, paid as dividends or otherwise distributed or contributed to MEHC or affiliates thereof.

In addition, the Company recorded separately, in restricted cash and short-term investments and in deferred charges and other assets, restricted cash and investments of $159.7 million and $164.5 million at March 31, 2005 and December 31, 2004, respectively. The restricted cash balance for both periods is comprised primarily of amounts deposited in restricted accounts which are reserved for the service of debt obligations, customer deposits held in escrow, custody deposits and unpaid dividends declared obligations.

Cash Flows from Operating Activities

The Company generated cash flows from operations of $388.7 million for the three-month period ended March 31, 2005, compared with $488.0 million for the same period in 2004. The decrease was mainly due to the receipt of a $79.0 million federal tax refund, in 2004, related to additional tax depreciation. Also contributing to the net decrease in cash flows from operations was lower income from continuing operations, the timing of property tax payments and changes in other working capital.

Cash Flows from Investing Activities

Cash flows used in investing activities for the three-month periods ended March 31, 2005 and 2004 were $196.8 million and $138.4 million, respectively, and increased primarily due to the collection of the $97.0 million Republic of the Philippines (“ROP”) Note in 2004.

Capital Expenditures, Construction and Other Development Costs

The following table summarizes the capital expenditures, construction and other development costs by reportable segment (in millions):

   
Three Months
 
   
Ended March 31,
 
     
2005
   
2004
 
Capital expenditures:
             
MidAmerican Energy
 
$
142.9
 
$
112.4
 
Northern Natural Gas
   
10.4
   
16.5
 
CE Electric UK
   
73.5
   
68.6
 
Other reportable segments
   
1.5
   
7.2
 
Total reportable segments
   
228.3
   
204.7
 
Corporate/other
   
-
   
0.9
 
Total capital expenditures
 
$
228.3
 
$
205.6
 
 

23


Forecasted capital expenditures, construction and other development costs for fiscal 2005 are approximately $1.3 billion. Capital expenditure needs are reviewed regularly by management and may change significantly as a result of such reviews. The Company expects to meet these capital expenditures with cash flows from operations and the issuance of debt. Capital expenditures relating to operating projects, consisting mainly of recurring expenditures, were $164.9 million for the three months ended March 31, 2005. Construction and other development costs were $63.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2005. These costs consist mainly of expenditures for large scale generation projects as follows:

MidAmerican Energy

MidAmerican Energy anticipates a continuing increase in demand for electricity from its regulated customers. To meet anticipated demand and ensure adequate electric generation in its service territory, MidAmerican Energy is currently constructing the Council Bluffs Energy Center Unit No. 4 project (“CBEC Unit 4”), a 790-MW (expected accreditation) super-critical-temperature, coal-fired facility and a 360-MW (nameplate rating) wind power project in Iowa. The projects will provide service to regulated retail electricity customers.

MidAmerican Energy has obtained regulatory approval to include the Iowa portion of the actual costs of the generation projects in its Iowa rate base as long as actual costs do not exceed the agreed caps that MidAmerican Energy has deemed to be reasonable. If the caps are exceeded, MidAmerican Energy has the right to demonstrate the prudence of the expenditures above the caps, subject to regulatory review. Wholesale sales may also be made from the projects to the extent the power is not immediately needed for regulated retail service. MidAmerican Energy expects to invest approximately $1.1 billion in the CBEC Unit 4 and wind generation projects, of which $439.3 million has been invested through March 31, 2005.

MidAmerican Energy will operate CBEC Unit 4 and hold an undivided ownership interest as a tenant in common with the other owners of the plant. MidAmerican Energy's ownership interest is 60.67%, equating to 479 MW of output. MidAmerican Energy expects its share of the estimated cost of the project, including transmission facilities, to be approximately $737 million, excluding allowance for funds used during construction. Municipal, cooperative and public power utilities will own the remainder, which is a typical ownership arrangement for large base-load plants in Iowa. On February 12, 2003, MidAmerican Energy executed a contract with Mitsui & Co. Energy Development, Inc. for engineering, procurement and construction of the plant. On September 9, 2003, MidAmerican Energy began construction of the plant, which it expects to be completed in the summer of 2007. On December 29, 2004, MidAmerican Energy received an order from the Iowa Utilities Board (“IUB”) approving construction of the associated transmission facilities and is proceeding with construction.

The wind power project currently under construction consists of wind power facilities located at two sites in north central Iowa totaling 360 MW (nameplate rating), including an expected 50-MW expansion of the original project. Generally speaking, accredited capacity ratings for wind power facilities are considerably less than the nameplate ratings due to the varying nature of wind. The current projected accredited capacity for these wind power facilities is approximately 61 MW. MidAmerican Energy will own and operate these facilities, which, including transmission facilities, are expected to cost approximately $386 million, excluding allowance for funds used during construction. As of December 31, 2004, wind turbines totaling 160.5 MW at one of the sites were completed and in service. The remaining turbines are expected to be completed in 2005. On January 31, 2005, the IUB approved ratemaking principles related to the expansion of the wind power project.

ROP Note and Receipt of Cash

On January 14, 2004, CE Casecnan exercised its right to put the ROP Note to the ROP and, in accordance with the terms of the put option, CE Casecnan received $99.2 million (representing $97.0 million par value plus accrued interest) from the ROP on January 21, 2004.

24


Cash Flows from Financing Activities

Cash flows used in financing activities for the three months ended March 31, 2005 were $424.7 million and consisted primarily of repayments of subsidiary and project debt. Cash flows used in financing activities for the three months ended March 31, 2004 were $65.6 million. During 2004, the Company used cash for financing activities, totaling $325.9 million, mainly for repayments of subsidiary obligations, including $136.4 million of cash flows from discontinued operations, and an increase in restricted cash and investments, primarily at CE Casecnan related to obligations for debt service and unpaid dividends declared. The Company generated cash from financing activities in 2004, totaling $260.3 million, primarily from the issuance of parent company senior debt.

Contractual Obligations and Commercial Commitments

During the three months ended March 31, 2005, there were no material changes in the contractual obligations and commercial commitments from the information provided in Item 7 of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004, other than the items as follows.

In February 2005, a subsidiary of CE Electric UK exercised a call option to purchase, and then cancelled, its £155.0 million Variable Rate Reset Trust Securities, due in 2020. A charge to exercise the call option of $10.2 million was recognized in interest expense in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations.

On February 15, 2004, MidAmerican Energy’s 7% series of mortgage bonds, totaling $90.5 million, matured. MidAmerican Energy expects to issue long-term debt in 2005 to support construction of its electric generation projects and for general corporate purposes.

On April 14, 2005, Northern Natural Gas issued $100.0 million of 5.125% senior notes due May 1, 2015. The proceeds were used by Northern Natural Gas to repay its outstanding $100.0 million 6.875% senior notes due May 1, 2005.

On April 4, 2005, CE Electric UK and certain of its subsidiaries entered into a five year, £100.0 million committed revolving credit facility agreement.

On May 5, 2005, Northern Electric Finance plc, an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of CE Electric UK, issued £150.0 million of 5.125% bonds due 2035, guaranteed by Northern Electric and guaranteed as to scheduled payments of principal and interest by Ambac Assurance UK Limited (“Ambac”). Additionally, on May 5, 2005, Yorkshire Electricity, a wholly-owned subsidiary of CE Electric UK, issued £200.0 million of 5.125% bonds due 2035, guaranteed as to scheduled payments of principal and interest by Ambac. The proceeds from the offerings will be used for general corporate purposes, invested and used to repay debt as it comes due. Investments will include a £100.0 million fixed rate guaranteed investment contract maturing December 2007 and a £200.0 million fixed rate guaranteed investment contract maturing February 2008. In connection with the issuance of such bonds, CE Electric UK entered into agreements amending certain terms and conditions of its 7.25% bonds due 2022.

Credit Ratings Risks

Debt and preferred securities of the Company may be rated by nationally recognized credit rating agencies. Assigned credit ratings are based on each rating agency’s assessment of the rated company’s ability to, in general, meet the obligations of its debt or preferred securities. The credit ratings are not a recommendation to buy, sell or hold securities, and there is no assurance that a particular credit rating will continue for any given period of time. Other than the energy trading agreements discussed below, the Company does not have any credit agreements that require termination or a material change in collateral requirements or payment schedule in the event of a downgrade in the credit ratings of the respective company’s securities.

In conjunction with its wholesale marketing and trading activities, MidAmerican Energy must meet credit quality standards as required by counterparties. MidAmerican Energy has energy trading agreements that, in accordance with industry practice, either specifically require it to maintain investment grade credit ratings or provide the right for counterparties to demand “adequate assurances” in the event of a material adverse change in MidAmerican Energy’s creditworthiness. If one or more of MidAmerican Energy’s credit ratings decline below investment grade, MidAmerican Energy may be required to post cash collateral, letters of credit or other similar credit support to facilitate ongoing wholesale marketing and trading activities. As of March 31, 2005, MidAmerican Energy’s estimated potential collateral requirements totaled approximately $123 million. MidAmerican Energy’s collateral requirements could fluctuate considerably due to seasonality, market price volatility, and a loss of key MidAmerican Energy generating facilities or other related factors.
 
25


 
Yorkshire Power Group Limited (“YPGL”), a subsidiary of CE Electric UK, has in effect certain currency rate swap agreements for its Yankee Bonds with three large multi-national financial institutions. The swap agreements effectively convert the U.S. dollar fixed interest rate to a fixed rate in Sterling. For the $281.1 million of the 6.496% Yankee Bonds outstanding at March 31, 2005, the agreements extend until February 25, 2008 and convert the U.S. dollar interest rate to a fixed Sterling rate ranging from 7.3175% to 7.3450%. The estimated fair value of these swap agreements at March 31, 2005 was $95.9 million based on quotes from the counterparties to these instruments and represents the estimated amount that the Company would expect to pay if these agreements were terminated. Certain of these counterparties have the option to terminate the swap agreements and demand payment of the fair value of the swaps if YPGL’s credit ratings from the three recognized credit rating agencies decline below investment grade. As of March 31, 2005, YPGL’s credit ratings from the three recognized credit rating agencies were investment grade; however, if the ratings fell below investment grade, payment requirements would have been $44.7 million.

Regulatory Matters

The following are updates to regulatory matters based upon changes that occurred during the three months ended March 31, 2005:

Kern River

On April 30, 2004, Kern River filed a general rate case with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (“FERC”) pursuant to the requirements of its prior rate case settlement. Under the procedural schedule adopted, unless the rate case is settled earlier, a hearing will be held on the issues in August 2005 followed by an administrative law judge decision that is scheduled for release in December 2005.

Northern Natural Gas

On March 25, 2005, as modified on April 22, 2005, Northern Natural Gas filed a stipulation and agreement with the FERC (the “Settlement”). The Settlement represents the agreement Northern Natural Gas reached with its customers to settle the base tariff rates in the consolidated cases. The Settlement provides for, among other things, rates designed to generate revenues on an annual basis above the base rates which were in effect as of October 31, 2003, as follows: $48 million for the period November 1, 2003 through October 31, 2004, $53 million for the period November 1, 2004 through October 31, 2005, $58 million for the period November 1, 2005 through October 31, 2006, and $62 million beginning November 1, 2006. The FERC administrative law judge must certify the Settlement to the FERC for approval. Within 60 days of a final order from the FERC approving the proposed Settlement, Northern Natural Gas will be required to make refunds with interest to its customers generally reflecting the difference between the rate increases implemented on November 1, 2003 and November 1, 2004 and the revenue generated using the settlement rates. A final order is expected in the third quarter of 2005.

Environmental Matters

MidAmerican Energy’s generating facilities are subject to applicable provisions of the Clean Air Act and related air quality standards promulgated by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”). The Clean Air Act provides the framework for regulation of certain air emissions and permitting and monitoring associated with those emissions. MidAmerican Energy believes it is in material compliance with current air quality requirements.

The EPA has in recent years implemented more stringent national ambient air quality standards for ozone and new standards for fine particulate matter. These standards set the minimum level of air quality that must be met throughout the United States. Areas that achieve the standards, as determined by ambient monitoring, are characterized as being in attainment of the standard. Areas that fail to meet the standard are designated as being nonattainment areas. Generally, once an area has been designated as a nonattainment area, sources of emissions in the area that contribute to the failure to achieve the ambient air quality standards are required to make emissions reductions. The EPA has concluded that the entire state of Iowa is in attainment of the ozone standards and the fine particulate matter standards.
 
26


On March 10, 2005, the EPA released the final Clean Air Interstate Rule (“CAIR”), calling for reductions of sulfur dioxide (“SO 2 ”) and nitrogen oxides (“NO x ”) in the eastern United States through a market-based cap and trade system. While the state of Iowa has been determined to be in attainment of the ozone and fine particulate standards, Iowa has been found to significantly contribute to nonattainment of the fine particulate standard in Cook County, Illinois; Lake County, Indiana; Madison County, Illinois; St. Clair County, Illinois; and Marion County, Indiana. The EPA has also concluded that emissions from Iowa significantly contribute to ozone nonattainment in Kenosha and Sheboygan counties in Wisconsin and Macomb County, Michigan. Under the final CAIR, the first phase reductions of SO 2 emissions are effective on January 1, 2010, with the second phase reductions effective January 1, 2015. For NO x , the first phase emissions reductions are effective January 1, 2009 and the second phase reductions are effective January 1, 2015. The CAIR calls for overall reductions of SO 2 and NO x in Iowa of 68% and 67%, respectively, by 2015. The CAIR will impact MidAmerican Energy’s coal-burning generating facilities and will require MidAmerican Energy to either reduce emissions from those facilities through the installation of emission controls or purchase additional emission allowances, or some combination thereof.

On March 15, 2005, the EPA released the final Clean Air Mercury Rule (“CAMR”). The CAMR utilizes a market-based cap and trade mechanism to reduce mercury emissions from coal-burning power plants from the current nationwide level of 48 tons to 15 tons at full implementation. The CAMR’s two-phase reduction program requires initial reductions of mercury emission in 2010 and an overall reduction in mercury emissions from coal-burning power plants of 70% by 2018. The CAMR will impact MidAmerican Energy’s coal-burning generating facilities and will require MidAmerican Energy to either reduce emissions from those facilities through the installation of emission controls or purchase additional emission allowances, or some combination thereof.

The CAIR or the CAMR could, in whole or in part, be superseded or made more stringent by one of a number of multi-pollutant emission reduction proposals currently under consideration at the federal level, including the “Clear Skies Initiative,” and other pending legislative proposals that contemplate 70% to 90% reductions of SO 2 , NO X and mercury, as well as possible new federal regulation of carbon dioxide and other gases that may affect global climate change. In addition to any federal legislation that could be enacted by Congress to supersede the CAIR and the CAMR, the rules could be changed or overturned as a result of litigation.

MidAmerican Energy has implemented a planning process that forecasts the site-specific controls and actions that may be required to meet emissions reductions as promulgated by the EPA. In accordance with an Iowa law passed in 2001, MidAmerican Energy has on file with the IUB its current multi-year plan and budget for managing SO 2 and NO X from its generating facilities in a cost-effective manner. The plan, which is required to be updated every two years, provides specific actions to be taken at each coal-fired generating facility and the related costs and timing for each action. On July 17, 2003, the IUB issued an order that affirmed an administrative law judge’s approval of the initial plan filed April 1, 2002, as amended. On October 4, 2004, the IUB issued an order approving MidAmerican Energy’s second biennial plan as revised in a settlement MidAmerican Energy entered into with the Iowa Office of Consumer Advocate (“OCA”). That plan covers the time period from April 1, 2004 through December 31, 2006. Neither IUB order resulted in any changes to electric rates for MidAmerican Energy. The effect of the orders is to approve the prudence of expenditures made consistent with the plans. Pursuant to an unrelated rate settlement agreement approved by the IUB on October 17, 2003, if prior to January 1, 2011, capital and operating expenditures to comply with environmental requirements cumulatively exceed $325 million, then MidAmerican Energy may seek to recover the additional expenditures from customers. Based on a review of the final CAIR and CAMR, MidAmerican Energy does not expect the qualified expenditures to exceed $325 million through January 1, 2011.

Under the New Source Review (“NSR”) provisions of the Clean Air Act, a utility is required to obtain a permit from the EPA or a state regulatory agency prior to (1) beginning construction of a new major stationary source of an NSR-regulated pollutant or (2) making a physical or operational change to an existing facility that potentially increases emissions, unless the changes are exempt under the regulations (including routine maintenance, repair and replacement of equipment). In general, projects subject to NSR regulations are subject to pre-construction review and permitting under the Prevention of Significant Deterioration (“PSD”) provisions of the Clean Air Act. Under the PSD program, a project that emits threshold levels of regulated pollutants must undergo a Best Available Control Technology analysis and evaluate the most effective emissions controls. These controls must be installed in order to receive a permit. Violations of NSR regulations, which may be alleged by the EPA, states, and environmental groups, among others, potentially subject a utility to material expenses for fines and other sanctions and remedies including requiring installation of enhanced pollution controls and funding supplemental environmental projects.
 
27


In recent years, the EPA has requested from several utilities information and support regarding their capital projects for various generating plants. The requests were issued as part of an industry-wide investigation to assess compliance with the NSR and the New Source Performance Standards of the Clean Air Act. In December 2002 and April 2003, MidAmerican Energy received requests from the EPA to provide documentation related to its capital projects from January 1, 1980, to April 2003 for a number of its generating plants. MidAmerican Energy has submitted information to the EPA in responses to these requests, and there are currently no outstanding data requests pending from the EPA. MidAmerican Energy cannot predict the outcome of these requests at this time. However, on August 27, 2003, the EPA announced changes to its NSR rules that clarify what constitutes routine repair, maintenance and replacement for purposes of triggering NSR requirements. The EPA concluded equipment that is repaired, maintained or replaced with an expenditure not greater than 20 percent of the value of the source will not trigger the NSR provisions of the Clean Air Act. A number of states and local air districts challenged the EPA’s clarifications of the NSR rule, and a panel of the United States Circuit Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia issued an order on December 24, 2003, staying the EPA’s implementation of its clarifications of the equipment replacement rule. On July 1, 2004, the EPA published a notice of stay of the final equipment replacement rule in the Federal Register, consistent with the judicial stay. Additionally, on the same date, the EPA published a Notice of Reconsideration and Request for Comment on the equipment replacement rule in response to the Petitioners’ legal challenges. Until such time as the EPA takes final action on the equipment replacement rule, the previous rules without the clarified exemption remain in effect.

On February 16, 2005, the Kyoto Protocol became effective, requiring 35 developed countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 5% between 2008 and 2012. While the United States did not ratify the protocol, the ratification and implementation of its requirements in other countries has resulted in increased attention on the climate change issue in the United States. The McCain-Lieberman bill, known as the Climate Stewardship Act, which was defeated by Congress in 2004, was reintroduced in Congress on February 10, 2005. The Climate Stewardship Act would require a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in certain economic sectors to 2000 levels by 2010 through the utilization of emission allowances. On February 15, 2005, Senator Chuck Hagen proposed a comprehensive approach to dealing with the issue of climate change through the introduction of three bills that address technology deployment in the United States by providing loans, investment protection and power production incentives for United States businesses investing in advanced climate technology, technology deployment in developing countries, and research and development tax incentives.

Litigation is pending before the United States Circuit Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia to determine whether the Clean Air Act requires federal regulation of carbon dioxide emissions. While debate continues at the national level over the direction of domestic climate policy, several states are developing state-specific or regional legislative initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The outcome of climate change litigation and federal and state initiatives cannot be determined at this time; however, adoption of stringent limits on greenhouse gas emissions could significantly impact MidAmerican Energy’s facilities and, therefore, its results of operations.

CalEnergy Generation-Foreign - Proposed Value-Added Tax Legislation

The Philippine House and Senate each has passed a bill which reimposes value-added tax on electricity, but prohibits certain electricity generators from passing on the value-added tax to their customers. The House and Senate bills are being reconciled in a Philippine congressional bicameral conference committee. If signed into law, a final bill prohibiting MEHC’s subsidiaries that own (i) the Upper Mahiao, Malitbog and Mahanagdong Projects (collectively the “Leyte Projects”) from invoicing the Philippine National Oil Company-Energy Development Corporation (“PNOC-EDC”), and (ii) the Casecnan Project from invoicing the Republic of the Philippines National Irrigation Administration (“NIA”) for, and getting paid, value-added tax may trigger the change in law provisions of the Leyte Projects' energy conversion agreements and the Casecnan Project's project agreement. The Leyte Projects' energy conversion agreements and the Casecnan Project's project agreement change in law provisions require PNOC-EDC and NIA, respectively, to negotiate amendments to those agreements which would keep MEHC’s subsidiaries that own the Leyte Projects and the Casecnan Project whole for the adverse impact of such a change in law. The Company believes that a failure by PNOC-EDC and NIA to agree to such amendments would entitle the Company to demand that the Philippine government purchase its interests in the Leyte Projects and the Casecnan Project, each at a price equal to the net present value of the energy (and, in the case of the Casecnan Project, water) fee payments over the remaining terms of the Leyte Projects' energy conversion agreements and Casecnan Project's project agreement. PNOC-EDC, NIA and the Philippine government may challenge any efforts by the Company to demand that its interests be so purchased. The Company is closely monitoring developments in this regard in the Philippines, and intends to vigorously defend its rights should a final bill containing a no pass through provision be signed into law.

28


New Accounting Pronouncements

In March 2005, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued FASB Interpretation No. 47, “Accounting for Conditional Asset Retirement Obligations, an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 143” (“FIN 47”). FIN 47 clarifies that the term conditional asset retirement obligation as used in Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 143, “Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations”, refers to a legal obligation to perform an asset retirement activity in which the timing and/or method of settlement are conditional on a future event that may or may not be within the control of the entity. Accordingly, an entity is required to recognize a liability for the fair value of a conditional asset retirement obligation if the fair value of the liability can be reasonably estimated. Uncertainty about the timing and/or method of settlement of a conditional asset retirement obligation should be factored into the measurement of the liability when sufficient information exists. FIN 47 also clarifies when an entity would have sufficient information to reasonably estimate the fair value of an asset retirement obligation. The Company is required to adopt the provisions of FIN 47 by December 2005. Adoption of FIN 47 is not expected to have a material effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Critical Accounting Policies

The preparation of financial statements and related disclosures in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make judgments, assumptions and estimates that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Note 2 to the Company’s consolidated financial statements included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004 describes the significant accounting policies and methods used in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements. Estimates are used for, but not limited to, the accounting for the effects of certain types of regulation, impairment of long-lived assets, contingent liabilities and the accounting for revenue. Actual results could differ from these estimates.

For additional discussion of the Company’s critical accounting policies, see “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004. The Company’s critical accounting policies have not changed materially since December 31, 2004.

Item 3.

For quantitative and qualitative disclosures about market risk affecting MEHC, see Item 7A “Qualitative and Quantitative Disclosures About Market Risk” of MEHC’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004. MEHC’s exposure to market risk has not changed materially since December 31, 2004.

Item 4.

An evaluation was performed under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including the chief executive officer and chief financial officer, regarding the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) promulgated under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) as of March 31, 2005. Based on that evaluation, the Company’s management, including the chief executive officer and chief financial officer, concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective. There have been no changes during the quarter covered by this report in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
 
29



PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.

For a description of certain legal proceedings affecting the Company, please review Note 9, “Commitments and Contingencies” to the Interim Financial Statements and Item 3, “Legal Proceedings” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004. None of the proceedings that were disclosed in Item 3 of the Form 10-K were terminated or had material developments during the three-month period ended March 31, 2005.

Item 2.

Not applicable.

Item 3.

Not applicable.

Item 4.

Not applicable.

Item 5.

Not applicable.

Item 6.

The exhibits listed on the accompanying Exhibit Index are filed as part of this Quarterly Report.
 
30



SIGNATURES


Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.


 
MIDAMERICAN ENERGY HOLDINGS COMPANY
 
(Registrant)
   
   
   
 
/s/ Patrick J. Goodman
Date: May 6, 2005
Patrick J. Goodman
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
   
 
 
31

 
EXHIBIT INDEX


Exhibit No.
Description
   
31.1
Chief Executive Officer’s Certificate Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
   
31.2
Chief Financial Officer’s Certificate Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
   
32.1
Chief Executive Officer’s Certificate Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
   
32.2
Chief Financial Officer’s Certificate Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
   
99.1
Trust Deed made on 5 May 2005 between Northern Electric Finance plc, Northern Electric Distribution Limited, Ambac Assurance UK Limited and HSBC Trustee (C.I.) Limited.
   
99.2
Reimbursement and Indemnity Agreement dated 5 May 2005 between Northern Electric Finance plc, Northern Electric Distribution Limited and Ambac Assurance UK Limited.
   
99.3
Trust Deed made on 5 May 2005 between Yorkshire Electricity Distribution plc, Ambac Assurance UK Limited and HSBC Trustee (C.I.) Limited.
   
99.4
Reimbursement and Indemnity Agreement dated 5 May 2005 between Yorkshire Electricity Distribution plc and Ambac Assurance UK Limited.
   
99.5
Supplemental Trust Deed made on 5 May 2005 between CE Electric UK Funding Company, Ambac Assurance UK Limited and The Law Debenture Trust Corporation plc.
   
99.6
Second Supplemental Agreement to Insurance and Indemnity Agreement made on 5 May 2005 between CE Electric UK Funding Company and Ambac Assurance UK Limited.

32

 


EXHIBIT 31.1

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO
SECTION 302 OF THE
SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

I, David L. Sokol , certify that:

1.
 
I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of MidAmerican Energy Holdings Company ;
     
2.
 
Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
     
3.
 
Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
     
4.
 
The registrant’s other certifying officers and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) for the registrant and we have:
       
   
a)
Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
       
   
b)
Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
       
   
c)
Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and
   
5.
 
The registrant’s other certifying officers and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent function):
   
   
a)
All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
   
   
b)
Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: May 6, 2005
/s/ David L. Sokol
David L. Sokol
Chairman and C hief Executive Officer


EXHIBIT 31.2

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO
SECTION 302 OF THE
SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

I, Patrick J. Goodman , certify that:

1.
 
I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of MidAmerican Energy Holdings Company ;
     
2.
 
Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
     
3.
 
Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
     
4.
 
The registrant’s other certifying officers and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) for the registrant and we have:
       
   
a)
Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
       
   
b)
Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
       
   
c)
Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and
   
5.
 
The registrant’s other certifying officers and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent function):
   
   
a)
All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
   
   
b)
Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: May 6, 2005

/s/ Patrick J. Goodman
Patrick J. Goodman
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer


EXHIBIT 32.1

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO
SECTION 906 OF THE
SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

I, David L. Sokol, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of MidAmerican Energy Holdings Company (the “Company”), certify, pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, that to the best of my knowledge:

(1)
the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of the Company for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2005 (the “Report”) fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (15 U.S.C. 78m or 78o(d)); and
   
(2)
the information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and result of operations of the Company.


Date: May 6, 2005


/s/ David L. Sokol
David L. Sokol
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer


EXHIBIT 32.2

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO
SECTION 906 OF THE
SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

I, Patrick J. Goodman, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of MidAmerican Energy Holdings Company (the “Company”), certify, pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, that to the best of my knowledge:

(1)
the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of the Company for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2005 (the “Report”) fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (15 U.S.C. 78m or 78o(d)); and
   
(2)
the information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and result of operations of the Company.


Date: May 6, 2005




/s/ Patrick J. Goodman
Patrick J. Goodman
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
 
 

 
EXHIBIT 99.1
 
C  L  I  F  F  O  R  D LIMITED LIABILITY PARTNERSHIP 
C  H  A  N  C  E
 
  EXECUTION COPY  
 
 
 
 
NORTHERN ELECTRIC FINANCE PLC
 
£ 150,000,000
5.125 per cent. Guaranteed Bonds due 2035
 
Guaranteed by
 
NORTHERN ELECTRIC DISTRIBUTION LTD.
 
unconditionally and irrevocably guaranteed as to scheduled payments of principal and interest
pursuant to a financial guarantee issued by Ambac Assurance UK Limited
 
 

 
TRUST DEED
 
 

 

 

 




 

CONTENTS
Clause
 
Page
 
1.
 
Interpretation
 
1
2.
 
Amount of the Bonds and covenant to pay
 
6
3.
 
Form and issue of the Bonds
 
9
4.
 
Guarantee and Indemnity
 
11
5.
 
Stamp duties and Taxes
 
13
6.
 
The Trust Deed, the Bonds and the Financial Guarantee
 
14
7.
 
Application of moneys received by the Trustee
 
14
8.
 
Ambac and the Financial Guarantee
 
15
9.
 
Covenants by the Issuer and NEDL
 
17
10.
 
Covenants by Ambac
 
21
11.
 
Covenants by the Issuer and NEDL in favour of Ambac
 
22
12.
 
Remuneration and indemnification of the Trustee
 
25
13.
 
Provisions supplemental to the Trustee Act 1925
 
27
14.
 
Trustee liable for negligence
 
31
15.
 
Waiver
 
31
16.
 
Trustee not precluded from entering into contracts
 
32
17.
 
Modification and substitution
 
32
18.
 
Appointment, retirement and removal of the Trustee
 
34
19.
 
Coupons
 
35
20.
 
Controlling Party
 
36
21.
 
Currency indemnity
 
36
22.
 
Communications
 
37
23.
 
Governing law
 
38
24.
 
Counterparts
 
38
         
SCHEDULE 1
 
Form of Temporary Global Bond
 
39
SCHEDULE 2
 
Form of Permanent Global Bond
 
48
SCHEDULE 3
 
Form of Definitive Bond
 
55
SCHEDULE 4
 
Terms and Conditions of the Bonds
 
60
SCHEDULE 5
 
Provisions for Meetings of Bondholders
 
92
SCHEDULE 6
 
Excluded Rights of the Trustee
 
99

 

 

UK/278053/07
 
R0021/09120



THIS TRUST DEED is made on 5 May 2005
 
BETWEEN
 
(1)  
NORTHERN ELECTRIC FINANCE PLC (the " Issuer "), a public company incorporated in England and Wales with limited liability under registered number 3070482;
 
(2)  
NORTHERN ELECTRIC DISTRIBUTION LTD ("NEDL") , a company incorporated in England and Wales with limited liability under registered number 02906593;
 
(3)  
AMBAC ASSURANCE UK LIMITED (" Ambac "), a company incorporated in England and Wales with limited liability under registered number 3248674; and
 
(4)  
HSBC TRUSTEE (C.I.) LIMITED (the " Trustee ", which expression shall, where the content so admits, include all persons for the time being the trustee or trustees of this Trust Deed (as defined below)).
 
WHEREAS
 
(5)  
The Issuer has authorised the issue of £150,000,000 5.125 per cent. Guaranteed Bonds due 2035 to be constituted by this Trust Deed.
 
(6)  
NEDL has authorised the giving of its guarantee in relation to the Bonds.
 
(7)  
The Trustee has agreed to act as trustee of this Trust Deed on the following terms and conditions.
 
(8)  
Pursuant to a financial guarantee dated the date hereof issued by Ambac to the Trustee (the " Financial Guarantee "), Ambac unconditionally and irrevocably guarantees the scheduled payment of principal of and interest on such Bonds and certain additional amounts.
 
NOW THIS DEED WITNESSES AND IT IS HEREBY DECLARED as   follows:
 
 
1.  
INTERPRETATION
 
1.1   
Definitions
The following expressions shall have the following meanings:
 
" Affiliate " means, in relation to any Person, any Holding Company of that Person or a Person of which that Holding Company has direct or indirect control or owns directly or indirectly more than 50 per cent. of the share capital or similar rights of ownership or control of another Person;
 
" Authorised Signatory " means:
 
(a)  
in relation to the Issuer or NEDL, a director of the Issuer or NEDL (as applicable) or any person in respect of whom the Issuer or NEDL (as applicable) has supplied to the Trustee and Ambac a copy, certified by a director or the secretary of the Issuer or NEDL, as applicable, to be a true copy and in full force and effect, of a resolution or resolutions of the board of directors of the Issuer or NEDL, as applicable, authorising such person to sign on behalf of the Issuer or NEDL, as applicable, all such certificates and other documents as are referred to therein, together with a certified specimen signature of such person, and in respect of whom the Trustee and Ambac have not received written notification from the Issuer or NEDL, as applicable, that such person has ceased to be so authorised; and
 

1

 
(b)  
in relation to Ambac, a director of Ambac or any person in respect of whom Ambac has supplied to the Trustee a copy, certified by a director or the secretary of Ambac to be a true copy and in full force and effect, of a resolution or resolutions of the board of directors of Ambac authorising such person to sign on behalf of Ambac all such certificates and other documents as are referred to therein, together with a certified specimen signature of such person, and in respect of whom the Trustee has not received written notification from Ambac that such person has ceased to be so authorised;
 
" Bondholder " and (in relation to a Bond) " holder " means the bearer of a Bond;
 
" Bonds " means the £150,000,000 5.125 per cent. Guaranteed Bonds due 2035 constituted by this Trust Deed and for the time being outstanding or, as the context may require, a specific number of them and includes the Temporary Global Bond (or any part thereof), the Permanent Global Bond (or any part thereof) and the Definitive Bonds (or any of them), including any replacement Definitive Bonds issued pursuant to Condition 16 ( Replacement of Bonds and Coupons );
 
" Clearstream, Luxembourg " means Clearstream Banking, société anonyme , Luxembourg;
 
" Conditions " means the terms and conditions set out in Schedule 4 ( Terms and Conditions of the Bonds ) as modified, with respect to any Bonds represented by a Global Bond, by the provisions of such Global Bond and as from time to time modified in accordance with this Trust Deed and any reference to a particularly numbered Condition shall be construed accordingly;
 
" Couponholder " and (in relation to a Coupon) " holder " means the bearer of a Coupon;
 
" Coupons " means the bearer interest coupons appertaining to the Definitive Bonds in or substantially in the form set out in Schedule 3 ( Form of Definitive Bond ), or as the context may require, a specific number of them and includes any replacement Coupons issued pursuant to Condition 16 ( Replacement of Bonds and Coupons );
 
" Definitive Bonds " means the Bonds in definitive form to be issued pursuant to, and in the circumstances specified in, Clause 3.3 ( Exchange for Definitive Bonds ), in or substantially in the form set out in Schedule 3 ( Form of Definitive Bond ), and includes any replacements therefor issued pursuant to Condition 16 ( Replacement of Bonds and Coupons );
 
 

2

 
" Euroclear " means Euroclear Bank S.A./N.V., as operator of the Euroclear system;
 
" Excluded Rights " means the rights, powers, authorities and discretions of, or exercisable by, the Trustee set out in Schedule 6 ( Excluded Rights of the Trustee );
 
" Extraordinary Resolution " has the meaning set out in paragraph 21 of Schedule 5 ( Provisions for Meetings of Bondholders );
 
" Financial Guarantee " means the financial guarantee executed on or about the date hereof between Ambac and the Trustee;
 
" Global Bonds " means the Temporary Global Bond and the Permanent Global Bond and " Global Bond " means either of them;
 
" Holding Company " means any Person of which the first mentioned Person is a Subsidiary;
 
" Issuer Event of Default " means any of the events set out in Condition 11 ( Issuer Events of Default );
 
" Notice of Demand and Certificate " means the notice so named appended to the Financial Guarantee;
 
" outstanding " means, in relation to the Bonds, all the Bonds issued other than (a) those Bonds which have been redeemed in full and cancelled pursuant to Conditions 7 ( Redemption and Purchase ) or 13 ( Restructuring Event ) or otherwise pursuant to this Trust Deed; (b) those Bonds in respect of which the date for redemption in accordance with the Conditions has occurred and, in any such case, the redemption moneys for which (including all interest payable thereon) have been duly paid to the Trustee or to the Principal Paying Agent in the manner provided in the Paying Agency Agreement (and, where appropriate, notice to that effect has been given to the Bondholders in accordance with Condition 17 ( Notices )) and remain available for payment against presentation of the relevant Bonds and/or Coupons; (c) those Bonds which have been purchased and surrendered for cancellation in accordance with Condition 7(e) ( Cancellation ); (d) those Bonds which have become void under Condition 9 ( Prescription ); (e) those mutilated or defaced Definitive Bonds which have been surrendered and cancelled and in respect of which replacements have been issued pursuant to Condition 16 ( Replacement of Bonds and Coupons ); (f) (for the purpose only of ascertaining the amount of Bonds outstanding and without prejudice to the status for any other purpose of the relevant Bonds) those Definitive Bonds which are alleged to have been lost, stolen or destroyed and in respect of which replacements have been issued pursuant to Condition 16 ( Replacement of Bonds and Coupons ); (g) the Temporary Global Bond to the extent that it shall have been exchanged for the Permanent Global Bond pursuant to the provisions contained therein and in Clause 3.3 ( Exchange for Definitive Bonds ), and (h) the Permanent Global Bond to the extent that it shall be exchanged for the Definitive Bonds pursuant to the provisions contained therein and in Clause 3.3 ( Exchange for Definitive Bonds ).
 

3

 
provided that   for each of the following purposes, namely:
 
(i)  
the right to attend and vote at any meeting of the Bondholders;
 
(ii)  
the determination of how many and which Bonds are for the time being outstanding for the purposes of the Conditions and paragraphs 3, 6, 7 and 11 of Schedule 5 ( Provisions for Meetings of Bondholders );
 
(iii)  
any discretion, power or authority contained in this Trust Deed which the Trustee is required, expressly or impliedly, to exercise in or by reference to the interests of any of the Bondholders; and
 
(iv)  
the determination by the Trustee (if it is the Controlling Party) whether any of the events specified in Condition 11 ( Issuer Events of Default ) is materially adverse to the interests of the Bondholders,
 
those Bonds which are for the time being held beneficially by or for the account of the Issuer, NEDL or any Subsidiaries or holding companies of either of them, or any other Subsidiaries of such holding companies shall (unless and until ceasing to be so held) be deemed not to remain outstanding and provided further that notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, in the event that the principal of and/or interest due on any Bond is paid by Ambac pursuant to this Trust Deed and the Financial Guarantee, for the purpose of the rights of subrogation of Ambac under the Financial Guarantee, all such Bonds and/or Coupons (as the case may be) shall remain outstanding and shall not be deemed to have been satisfied or paid by the Issuer or NEDL, and all covenants and other obligations of the Issuer and/or NEDL to the Bondholders under this Trust Deed and the Bonds shall continue to exist for the benefit of Ambac, and Ambac shall be subrogated to the rights of all Bondholders under this Trust Deed and the Bonds who have received such payment from Ambac;
 
" Paying Agency Agreement " means the Paying Agency Agreement dated 5 May 2005, as altered from time to time, between the Issuer, NEDL, the Trustee, the Principal Paying Agent and the other Paying Agent whereby the Paying Agents were appointed and includes any other agreements approved in writing by the Trustee appointing Successor Paying Agents or altering any such agreements;
 
" Paying Agents " means the institutions (including the Principal Paying Agent) at their respective specified offices referred to in Condition 6 ( Payments ) and/or any Successor Paying Agents, in each case at their respective specified offices;
 
" Permanent Global Bond " means the permanent global Bond to be issued by the Issuer pursuant to Clause 3.1 ( The Global Bonds ) representing the Bonds, in or substantially in the form set out in Schedule 2 ( Form of Permanent Global Bond );
 

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" Person " means any person, firm, company or body corporate, corporation, government, state or agency of a state or any association or partnership (whether or not having separate legal personality) or two or more of the foregoing;
 
" Potential Issuer Event of Default " means an event or circumstance which would with the giving of notice and/or lapse of time and/or the issuing of a certificate become an Issuer Event of Default;
" principal ", " principal amount " and " principal moneys " in relation to any payment in respect of Bonds includes, where applicable, the Redemption Price referred to in Condition 7(b)(ii) ( Redemption at the option of the Issuer );
 
" Principal Paying Agent " means HSBC Bank plc or any Successor Principal Paying Agent appointed under the Paying Agency Agreement;
 
" Reimbursement and Indemnity Agreement " means the agreement so named between the Issuer, NEDL and Ambac dated 5 May 2005;
 
" Scheduled Amount " means, in respect of any Scheduled Payment Date, the amount of interest and (if applicable) principal in respect of the Bonds and/or the Coupons (as the case may be) which the Issuer is scheduled to pay on such Scheduled Payment Date;
 
" specified office " means, in relation to any Paying Agent, either the office identified with its name at the end of the Conditions or any other office approved by the Trustee and notified to the Bondholders pursuant to Clause 9.12 ( Change in Agents );
 
" statutory obligation " means any obligation or liability which a person becomes liable to satisfy by virtue of being a member or director of, or under common control with, a corporate entity, pursuant to the provisions of any applicable statute;
 
" Subscription Agreement " means the subscription agreement dated 29 April 2005 between the Issuer, NEDL, Ambac and The Royal Bank of Scotland plc;
 
" Successor " means, in relation to the Paying Agents, such other or further person as may from time to time be appointed by the Issuer as a Paying Agent, with the written approval of, and on terms approved in writing by, the Trustee and Ambac (so long as Ambac is the Controlling Party), and notice of whose appointment is given to Bondholders pursuant to Clause 9.12 ( Change in Agents );
 
" Temporary Global Bond " means the temporary global Bond to be issued by the Issuer pursuant to Clause 3.1 ( The Global Bonds ) representing the Bonds, in or substantially in the form set out in Schedule 1 ( Form of Temporary Global Bond );
 
" this Trust Deed " means this Deed, the Schedules (as from time to time altered in accordance with this Deed), the Conditions, the Bonds and the Coupons and any other document executed in accordance with this Deed (as from time to time altered in accordance with its terms) and expressed to be supplemental to this Deed; and
 

5

 
" trust corporation " means a corporation entitled by rules made under the Public Trustee Act 1906 or entitled pursuant to any other legislation applicable to a trustee in any jurisdiction other than England to carry out the functions of a custodian trustee.
 
1.2   
Terms defined elsewhere
Unless otherwise defined herein, terms defined in the Conditions or the Financial Guarantee shall have the same meanings in this Trust Deed.
 
1.3  
Construction of Certain References
References to:
 
1.3.1  
costs, charges, remuneration or expenses shall include any value added tax, turnover tax or similar tax charged in respect thereof;
 
1.3.2  
" £ ", " pounds " and " sterling " shall be construed as references to the lawful currency for the time being of the United Kingdom;
 
1.3.3  
any action, remedy or method of judicial proceedings for the enforcement of rights of creditors shall include, in respect of any jurisdiction other than England, references to such action, remedy or method of judicial proceedings available or appropriate in such jurisdiction as shall most nearly approximate thereto; and
 
1.3.4  
all references in this Trust Deed or the Conditions involving compliance by the Trustee with a test of reasonableness shall be deemed to include a reference to a requirement that such reasonableness shall be determined by reference primarily to the interests of the holders of the Bonds as a class and in the event of any conflict between such interests and the interests of any other person, the former shall prevail as being paramount.
 
1.3.5  
In this Trust Deed references to Coupons and Couponholders shall apply only if Definitive Bonds have been issued by the Issuer in accordance with Clause 3 ( Form and Issue of the Bonds ).
 
1.4  
Headings
Headings shall be ignored in construing this Trust Deed.
 
1.5   
Schedules
The Schedules are part of this Trust Deed and shall have effect accordingly.
 
2.  
AMOUNT OF THE BONDS AND COVENANT TO PAY
 
2.1  
Amount of the Bonds
The aggregate principal amount of the Bonds is limited to £150,000,000.
 
2.2   
Covenant to pay
The Issuer will in accordance with this Trust Deed on any date when the Bonds or any of them become due to be redeemed unconditionally pay to or to the order of the Trustee in London in pounds sterling in immediately available funds the principal amount of the Bonds becoming due for redemption on that date together with any applicable premium and will (subject to the Conditions) until such payment (both before and after judgment of a court of competent jurisdiction) unconditionally pay to or to the order of the Trustee as aforesaid interest on the principal amount of the Bonds outstanding as set out in the Conditions provided that (1) subject to sub-clause 2.4.2 of Clause 2.4 ( Payment after a Default ), every payment of any sum due in respect of the Bonds made to the Principal Paying Agent as provided in the Paying Agency Agreement shall, to such extent, satisfy such obligation except to the extent that there is failure in its subsequent payment (in the case of the Global Bonds) to or to the order of the bearer thereof in accordance with the provisions of the Temporary Global Bond or the Permanent Global Bond, as the case may be, or (in the case of the Definitive Bonds) to the relevant Bondholders or (as the case may be) Couponholders under the Conditions or (but only for the purpose of Ambac's rights of subrogation under the Financial Guarantee) to the extent that the relevant payment is made by Ambac under the Financial Guarantee and (2) in the case of any payment made after the due date or pursuant to Condition 11 ( Issuer Events of Default ), payment will be deemed to have been made when the full amount due has been received by the Principal Paying Agent or the Trustee and notice to that effect has been given to the Bondholders (if required in accordance with Clause 9.9 ( Notice of Late Payment )), except to the extent that there is failure in the subsequent payment to the relevant Bondholders or (as the case may be) Couponholders under the Conditions or (but only for the purpose of Ambac's rights of subrogation under the Financial Guarantee) to the extent that the relevant payment is made by Ambac under the Financial Guarantee. The Trustee will hold the benefit of this covenant on trust for the Bondholders and Couponholders.
 
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2.3  
Discharge
Subject to Clause 2.4 ( Payment after a Default ), any payment to be made in respect of the Bonds, the Coupons, this Trust Deed or the Financial Guarantee, as the case may be, by the Issuer, NEDL, the Trustee or Ambac may be made as provided herein, in the Conditions, the Paying Agency Agreement and, as the case may be, the Financial Guarantee, and any payment so made will (subject to Clause 2.4 ( Payment after a Default )) to such extent be a good discharge to the Issuer, NEDL, the Trustee or Ambac, as the case may be, subject to any rights of subrogation which Ambac may acquire against the Issuer by virtue of making any such payment under the Financial Guarantee.
 
2.4  
Payment after a Default
At any time after an Issuer Event of Default or a Potential Issuer Event of Default has occurred and is continuing the Trustee may:
 
2.4.1  
by notice in writing to Ambac, the Issuer, NEDL and the Paying Agents, require the Paying Agents, until notified by the Trustee to the contrary, so far as permitted by any applicable law:
 
(a)  
to act as Paying Agents of the Trustee under this Trust Deed and the Bonds on the terms of the Paying Agency Agreement (with consequential amendments as necessary and except that the Trustee's liability for the indemnification, remuneration and all other out-of-pocket expenses of the Paying Agents will be limited to the amounts for the time being held by the Trustee in respect of the Bonds on the terms of this Trust Deed) and thereafter to hold all Definitive Bonds and Coupons and all moneys, documents and records held by them in respect of the Bonds and Coupons to the order of the Trustee; or

 
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(b)  
to deliver all Definitive Bonds and Coupons and all moneys, documents and records held by them in respect of the Bonds and Coupons (save for such documents and records which the Paying Agents are obliged not to release by virtue of any applicable law or regulation or by order of any court of competent jurisdiction) to the Trustee or as the Trustee directs in such notice; and
 
2.4.2  
by notice in writing to the Issuer and NEDL require it to make all subsequent payments in respect of the Bonds and Coupons to or to the order of the Trustee and not to the Principal Paying Agent.
 
2.5  
Further Issues
2.5.1  
The Issuer shall be at liberty from time to time (but subject always to the provisions of this Trust Deed) without the consent of the Bondholders or Couponholders to create and issue further bonds or notes (whether in bearer or registered form) ranking pari passu in all respects (or in all respects save for the first payment of interest thereon), and so that the same shall be consolidated and form a single series, with the Bonds and/or any further bonds or notes of any series, provided that :
 
(a)  
Ambac has given its prior written consent (in its absolute discretion) to such further issue and to amend or substitute the Financial Guarantee so that the Financial Guarantee also covers such further bonds or notes on the same terms mutatis mutandis as apply to the Bonds;
 
(b)  
the Trustee is satisfied that the rating granted in respect of the Bonds by S&P and Moody's will not thereby be adversely affected;
 
(c)  
the Issuer shall not create and issue such further bonds or notes while any default exists in relation to any payment by the Issuer or NEDL of any amounts due under this Trust Deed; and
 
(d)  
such bonds or notes are irrevocably and unconditionally guaranteed by NEDL upon the same terms, mutatis mutandis , as the guarantee provided by NEDL herein.
 
2.5.2  
Any further bonds or notes which are to be created and issued pursuant to the provisions of sub-clause 2.5.1 above shall be constituted by a trust deed supplemental to this Trust Deed. In such case the Issuer and NEDL shall, prior to the issue of such further bonds or notes, execute and deliver to the Trustee and Ambac a trust deed supplemental to this Trust Deed (in relation to which all applicable stamp duties or other documentation fees, duties or taxes have been paid and, if applicable, duly stamped or denoted accordingly) and containing a covenant by the Issuer in the form mutatis mutandis of Clause 2.2 ( Covenant to Pay ) in relation to the principal, premium (if any) and interest in respect of such further bonds or notes and such other provisions (corresponding to the provisions contained in this Trust Deed, including a guarantee granted by NEDL in the form of Clause 4 ( Guarantee and Indemnity )) as the Trustee shall require.
 
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2.5.3  
A memorandum of every such supplemental Trust Deed shall be endorsed by the Trustee on this Trust Deed and by the Issuer, NEDL and Ambac on their duplicates of this Trust Deed.
 
2.5.4  
Whenever it is proposed to create and issue any further bonds or notes the Issuer shall give to the Trustee and Ambac not less than 14 days' notice in writing of its intention so to do stating the amount of further bonds or notes proposed to be created and issued.
 
3.  
FORM AND ISSUE OF THE BONDS
 
3.1   
The Global Bonds
The Bonds will initially be represented by the Temporary Global Bond without Coupons in the principal amount at the date hereof of £150,000,000 which, when duly executed and authenticated, will be deposited by the Issuer with HSBC Bank plc (the " Common Depositary ") as common depositary for Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg on the date hereof on terms that the Common Depositary shall hold the Temporary Global Bond to or to the order of the Issuer against payment of the net proceeds of the issue of the Bonds in accordance with the Subscription Agreement, following which it shall hold the Temporary Global Bond for the account of the Bondholders. The Issuer shall also deposit on the date hereof the Permanent Global Bond without Coupons in the principal amount of up to £150,000,000 with the Common Depositary who shall hold the Permanent Global Bond pending exchange of the Temporary Global Bond (in whole or in part) therefore in accordance with their respective terms. Following exchange of the Temporary Global Bond in whole for the Permanent Global Bond in accordance with their respective terms the Bonds shall (subject as provided in Clause 3.3 ( Exchange for Definitive Bonds ) below) thereafter be represented by the Permanent Global Bond.
 
The procedures as regards the issue, exchange, execution, authentication, delivery, surrender, cancellation, presentation and endorsement of the Temporary Global Bond and the Permanent Global Bond (or part thereof) and any other matters to be carried out by the relevant parties upon such exchange (in whole or in part) shall be made in accordance with this Clause 3 , their respective terms and the rules and procedures of Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg for the time being.
 
 
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3.2   
Signature and Authentication
The Global Bonds and the Definitive Bonds will be signed manually or in facsimile by a Director of the Issuer. The Issuer may use the facsimile signature of any person who at the date of this Trust Deed is a Director of the Issuer even if at the time of issue of any Bonds he/she no longer holds such office. The Issuer shall procure that, prior to the issue and delivery of each Global Bond, each Global Bond will be authenticated by an authorised signatory on behalf of the Principal Paying Agent and no Global Bond shall be valid for any purpose unless and until so authenticated. The Bonds so executed and, if applicable, so authenticated shall be binding and valid obligations of the Issuer. Until it (or part thereof) has been exchanged pursuant to Clauses 3.1 ( The Global Bonds ) or 3.3 ( Exchange for Definitive Bonds ) (but without prejudice to the escrow arrangements referred to in Clause 3.1 ( The Global Bonds ), each Global Bond (or part thereof) shall in all respects be entitled to the same benefits as a Definitive Bond and each Global Bond shall be subject to the provisions hereof except that the bearer thereof shall be the only person entitled to receive payments of principal and interest as set out therein.
 
3.3   
Exchange for Definitive Bonds
If while the Bonds are represented by one or more Global Bonds (i) an Ambac Event of Default shall have occurred or (ii) either Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg is closed for business for a continuous period of 14 days (other than by reason of holiday, statutory or otherwise) or announces an intention permanently to cease business or (iii) as a result of any change in, or amendment to, the laws or regulations of the United Kingdom or of any political sub-division of, or any authority in, the United Kingdom having power to tax or any change in the application or official interpretation of such laws or regulations which becomes effective on or after 29 April 2005, the Issuer, Ambac or any Paying Agent is or will be required to make any withholding or deduction from any payment in respect of the Bonds which would not be required if the Bonds were in definitive form, then the Issuer shall, (subject as mentioned below), within 30 days of the occurrence of such relevant event but not prior to the expiry of a period of 40 days commencing on the date hereof, issue Definitive Bonds (with all unmatured Coupons attached) in exchange for the whole (or the remaining part(s) outstanding) of the Permanent Global Bond. If any of the events mentioned in (i), (ii) or (iii) occurs whilst the Bonds are represented by the Temporary Global Bond (or part thereof) the Temporary Global Bond (or that part) shall forthwith be exchanged for the Permanent Global Bond (or part thereof) in accordance with its terms and Clause 3.1 ( The Global Bonds ) above so that the Bonds are then represented solely by the Permanent Global Bond. All Definitive Bonds shall be printed, proofed, executed and delivered as aforesaid but shall be held by the Principal Paying Agent until a Bondholder requests the Issuer through the Principal Paying Agent that his interest in the Permanent Global Bond be exchanged for Definitive Bonds whereupon such Definitive Bonds shall be issued to such Bondholder as aforesaid without charge. The procedures to be carried out by the relevant parties upon such exchange shall be made in accordance with the provisions of the Permanent Global Bond and the rules and procedures of Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg for the time being. The Permanent Global Bond shall be endorsed by or on behalf of the Principal Paying Agent in respect of those Definitive Bonds which are so delivered.
 
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3.4   
The Definitive Bonds
The Definitive Bonds shall be serially numbered and issued in bearer form in the denominations of £50,000 and £100,000 each with all unmatured Coupons attached. The Definitive Bonds and the Coupons will be security printed in accordance with all applicable stock exchange requirements in or substantially in the respective forms set out in Schedule 3 ( Form of Definitive Bond ) and the Definitive Bonds will be endorsed with the Conditions.
 
3.5   
Entitlement to treat holder as owner
The holder of any Bond or Coupon will (except as otherwise required by law) be treated as its absolute owner for all purposes (whether or not it is overdue and regardless of any notice of ownership, trust, or any interest in it, any writing on it, or its theft or loss) and no person will be liable for so treating the holder.
 
4.   
GUARANTEE AND INDEMNITY
 
4.1   
Guarantee
NEDL unconditionally and irrevocably guarantees to the Trustee payment of all sums expressed to be payable by the Issuer under this Trust Deed or in respect of the Bonds or Coupons, as and when the same becomes due and payable, whether at maturity, upon early redemption, upon acceleration or otherwise, according to the terms of this Trust Deed and the Bonds and Coupons. In case of the failure of the Issuer to pay any such sum as and when the same shall become due and payable, NEDL hereby agrees to cause such payment to be made as and when the same becomes due and payable, whether at maturity, upon early redemption, upon acceleration or otherwise, as if such payment were made by the Issuer.
 
4.2   
Guarantor as principal debtor
NEDL agrees, as an independent primary obligation, that it shall pay to the Trustee on demand sums sufficient to indemnify the Trustee and each Bondholder and Couponholder against any loss sustained by the Trustee or such Bondholder or Couponholder by reason of the non-payment as and when the same shall become due and payable of any sum expressed to be payable by the Issuer under this Trust Deed or in respect of the Bonds, whether by reason of any of the obligations expressed to be assumed by the Issuer in this Trust Deed or the Bonds being or becoming void, voidable or unenforceable for any reason, whether or not known to the Trustee or such Bondholder or Couponholder or for any other reason whatsoever.
 
4.3   
Unconditional payment
If the Issuer defaults in the payment of any sum expressed to be payable by the Issuer under this Trust Deed or in respect of the Bonds or Coupons as and when the same shall become due and payable, NEDL shall forthwith unconditionally pay or procure to be paid to or to the order of the Trustee   in Sterling in London in same day, freely transferable funds the amount in respect of which such default has been made; provided that every payment of such amount made by NEDL to the Principal Paying Agent in the manner provided in the Paying Agency Agreement shall be deemed to cure pro tanto such default by the Issuer and shall be deemed for the purposes of this Clause 4 to have been paid to or for the account of the Trustee except to the extent that there is failure in the subsequent payment of such amount to the Bondholders and Couponholders in accordance with the Conditions, and everything so paid by NEDL in accordance with the Paying Agency Agreement shall have the same effect as if it had been paid thereunder by the Issuer.
 
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4.4   
Unconditional obligation
NEDL agrees that its obligations hereunder shall be unconditional, irrespective of the validity, regularity or enforceability of this Trust Deed or any Bond or Coupon, or any change in or amendment hereto or thereto, the absence of any action to enforce the same, any waiver or consent by any Bondholder or Couponholder or by the Trustee with respect to any provision of this Trust Deed or the Bonds, the obtaining of any judgment against the Issuer or any action to enforce the same or any other circumstance which might otherwise constitute a legal or equitable discharge or defence of a guarantor.
 
4.5   
Guarantor's obligations continuing
NEDL waives diligence, presentment, demand of payment, filing of claims with a court in the event of merger or bankruptcy of the Issuer, any right to require a proceeding first against the Issuer, protest or notice with respect to any Bond or the indebtedness evidenced thereby and all demands whatsoever. NEDL agrees that the guarantee and indemnity contained in this Clause 4 is a continuing guarantee and indemnity and shall remain in full force and effect until all amounts due as principal, interest or otherwise in respect of the Bonds or Coupons or under this Trust Deed shall have been paid in full and that NEDL shall not be discharged by anything other than a complete performance of the obligations contained in this Trust Deed and the Bonds and Coupons.
 
4.6   
Subrogation of Guarantor's rights
NEDL shall be subrogated to all rights of the Bondholders against the Issuer in respect of any amounts paid by NEDL pursuant hereto; provided that NEDL shall not without the consent of the Trustee be entitled to enforce, or to receive any payments arising out of or based upon or prove in any insolvency or winding up of the Issuer in respect of, such right of subrogation until such time as the principal of and interest on all outstanding Bonds and Coupons and all other amounts due under this Trust Deed and the Bonds and Coupons and to Ambac under the Reimbursement and Indemnity Agreement have been paid in full. Furthermore, until such time as aforesaid, NEDL shall not take any security or counter-indemnity from the Issuer in respect of NEDL's obligations under this Clause 4 .
 
4.7   
Repayment to the Issuer
If any payment received by the Trustee or the Principal Paying Agent pursuant to the provisions of this Trust Deed or the Conditions shall, on the subsequent bankruptcy, insolvency, corporate reorganisation or other similar event affecting the Issuer, be avoided, reduced, invalidated or set aside under any laws relating to bankruptcy, insolvency, corporate reorganisation or other similar events, such payment shall not be considered as discharging or diminishing the liability of NEDL whether as guarantor, principal debtor or indemnifier and the guarantee and indemnity contained in this Clause 4 shall continue to apply as if such payment had at all times remained owing by the Issuer and NEDL shall indemnify and keep indemnified the Trustee and the Bondholders on the terms of the guarantee and indemnity contained in this Clause 4 .
 
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4.8   
Suspense account
Any amount received or recovered by the Trustee from NEDL in respect of any sum payable by the Issuer under this Trust Deed or the Bonds or the Coupons may be placed in a suspense account and kept there for so long as the Trustee thinks fit.
 
5.  
STAMP DUTIES AND TAXES
 
5.1   
Stamp Duties
The Issuer (failing whom, NEDL) will pay any stamp, issue, registration, documentary or other taxes and duties, including interest and penalties, payable in Belgium, Luxembourg and the United Kingdom in respect of the creation, issue and offering of the Bonds and the Coupons and the execution or delivery of this Trust Deed. The Issuer (failing whom, NEDL) will also indemnify the Trustee, Ambac, the Bondholders and the Couponholders from and against all stamp, issue, registration, documentary or other taxes paid by any of them in any jurisdiction in connection with any action properly taken by or on behalf of the Trustee, Ambac or, as the case may be, (where entitled under Condition 14 ( Enforcement ) to do so) the Bondholders or the Couponholders to enforce the obligations of the Issuer or NEDL under this Trust Deed, the Bonds or the Coupons.
 
5.2   
Change of Taxing Jurisdiction
If the Issuer becomes subject generally to the taxing jurisdiction of any territory or any authority of or in that territory having power to tax other than or in addition to the United Kingdom or any such authority of or in the United Kingdom then the Issuer will (unless the Trustee otherwise agrees) in a trust deed supplemental hereto give to the Trustee an undertaking in form and manner satisfactory to the Trustee in terms corresponding to the terms of Condition 8 ( Taxation ) with the substitution for, or (as the case may be) the addition to, the references in that Condition to the United Kingdom or any authority thereof or therein having power to tax of references to that other or additional territory or authority to whose taxing jurisdiction the Issuer has become so subject and in such event this Trust Deed, the Bonds and the Coupons will be read accordingly. In addition, such supplemental Trust Deed shall also modify Condition 7(c) ( Redemption for tax reasons ) by the substitution for, or (as the case may be) the addition to, the references in that Condition to the United Kingdom or any authority in or of the United Kingdom having power to tax, of references to that other territory or authority to whose taxing jurisdiction the Issuer has become so subject and in such event this Trust Deed, the Bonds and the Coupons will be read accordingly.
 

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6.   
THE TRUST DEED, THE BONDS AND THE FINANCIAL GUARANTEE
 
6.1  
Bonds incorporated by reference
The Issuer and NEDL each hereby covenants with the Trustee and Ambac that it will perform and comply with its obligations under the Bonds which are expressed to be binding on it. Subject to Conditions 14 ( Enforcement ) and 15 ( Controlling Party ) and Clause 20 ( Controlling Party ), the Trustee shall be entitled to enforce the obligations of the Issuer under the Bonds and the Coupons in the manner therein provided as if the Bonds and the Coupon were incorporated in this Trust Deed, which shall be read and construed as one document with the Bonds. The provisions contained in Schedule 4 ( Terms and Conditions of the Bonds ) shall have effect in the same manner as if herein set forth.
 
6.2   
Bonds and Financial Guarantee subject to Trust Deed
The Bonds and the Financial Guarantee shall be subject to the provisions of this Trust Deed, all of which shall be binding upon the Issuer, NEDL, Ambac, the Bondholders and the Couponholders and all persons claiming through or under them respectively.
 
6.3   
Evidence of Default
If the Trustee makes any claim, institutes any legal proceeding or lodges any proof in a winding up of the Issuer, NEDL and/or Ambac, proof that the Issuer, NEDL and/or Ambac, as the case may be, has failed to pay any principal or interest due and payable in respect of any particular Bond or Coupon shall (unless the contrary is proved) be sufficient evidence that the Issuer, NEDL and/or Ambac, as the case may be, has made the same default as regards all other Bonds or Coupons in respect of which a corresponding payment is due and payable.
 
7.  
APPLICATION OF MONEYS RECEIVED BY THE TRUSTEE
 
7.1  
Declaration of Trust
All moneys received by the Trustee from the Issuer or NEDL, as applicable, in respect of the Bonds and all other amounts payable under this Trust Deed will be held by the Trustee upon trust to apply them (subject to Clause 7.2 ( Accumulation )):
 
7.1.1  
firstly , in payment of all costs, charges, expenses and liabilities incurred by the Trustee (including remuneration payable to the Trustee) in carrying out its functions under this Trust Deed;
 
7.1.2  
secondly , in payment of any interest owing in respect of the Bonds (including any amounts owing to Ambac pursuant to its rights of subrogation following any payment of interest by Ambac under the Financial Guarantee) pari passu and rateably;
 
7.1.3  
thirdly , in payment of any principal and premium (if any) owing in respect of the Bonds (including any amounts of principal owing to Ambac pursuant to its rights of subrogation following any payment of principal by Ambac under the Financial Guarantee) pari passu and rateably; and
 

14

 
7.1.4  
fourthly , in payment of the balance (if any) to the Issuer for itself or, if such moneys were received from NEDL, to NEDL for itself.
 
Without prejudice to this Clause 7.1 ( Declaration of Trust ), if the Trustee holds any moneys which represent principal, premium or interest in respect of Bonds or Coupons which have become void under Condition 9 ( Prescription ), the Trustee will hold such moneys upon the above trusts provided that the Trustee shall be required to treat the payments of interest and/or principal and/or premium as having been satisfied and no amounts as outstanding or owing in respect thereof. The Trustee shall as soon as practicable apply such moneys as aforesaid and promptly thereafter return such moneys (or the balance thereof, as the case may be) to the Issuer.
 
7.2   
Accumulation
If the amount of the moneys at any time available for payment in respect of the Bonds under Clause 7.1 ( Declaration of Trust ) is less than 10 per cent. of the principal amount of the Bonds then outstanding, the Trustee may, at its discretion, invest such moneys. The Trustee may retain such investments and accumulate the resulting income until the investments and the accumulations, together with any other funds for the time being under the control of the Trustee and available for such payment, amount to at least 10 per cent. of the principal amount of the Bonds then outstanding and then such investments, accumulations and funds (after deduction of, or provision for, any applicable taxes) will be applied as specified in Clause 7.1 ( Declaration of Trust ).
 
7.3  
Investment
Any moneys held by the Trustee may be invested in the name or under the control of the Trustee in any investments or other assets in any part of the world whether or not they produce income or are placed on deposit in the name or under the control of the Trustee at such bank or other financial institution and in such currency as the Trustee may, in its absolute discretion, think fit. The Trustee may at any time vary or transpose any such investments for or into other such investments or convert any moneys so deposited into any other currency, and will not be responsible for any loss occasioned thereby, whether by depreciation in value, fluctuation in exchange rates or otherwise.
 
8.  
AMBAC AND THE FINANCIAL GUARANTEE
 
8.1  
Notice of Demand and Certificate
The Issuer shall procure that the Trustee is notified by no later than close of business on the sixth business day before each Scheduled Payment Date if the amount available to the Issuer or NEDL for payment of the interest and (if applicable) principal which the Issuer is scheduled to pay on such Scheduled Payment Date in respect of the Bonds and/or Coupons, as the case may be, is or will be less than the Scheduled Amount. If such amount is insufficient for payment of the Scheduled Amount, the Trustee shall deliver a Notice of Demand and Certificate to Ambac with a copy to the Issuer, NEDL and the Principal Paying Agent requiring Ambac to pay the shortfall in accordance with the terms of the Financial Guarantee.
 
 
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8.2   
Payments under Financial Guarantee at Ambac's Option
Any election by Ambac under the Financial Guarantee to pay any amount of principal in respect of the Bonds and any accrued interest thereon which has become immediately due and payable (whether by virtue of acceleration, prepayment or otherwise) other than on the relevant Scheduled Payment Date shall be made by notice in writing to the Trustee, with a copy to the Issuer and NEDL, specifying the date on which such amount will be paid by Ambac.
 
8.3  
Payments under Financial Guarantee to go to Principal Paying Agent
The Trustee shall direct Ambac to pay all sums payable under the Financial Guarantee to the Principal Paying Agent; provided that at any time after the occurrence of an Issuer Event of Default, a Potential Issuer Event of Default or an Ambac Event of Default or in the event that the Trustee considers that it would be inappropriate for such sums to be paid to the Principal Paying Agent, the Trustee may require Ambac to make payments to the Trustee or as it may otherwise direct.
 
8.4   
Notice of Ambac's transfer instructions
As soon as reasonably practicable before each date on which Ambac is obliged to make a payment under the Financial Guarantee, it shall notify the Trustee, the Issuer and NEDL of its irrevocable instructions to the bank effecting payment on its behalf to transfer such amount in accordance with the relevant Notice of Demand and Certificate.
 
8.5   
The Issuer not discharged
Neither the Issuer nor NEDL shall be discharged from its respective obligations under the Bonds, (in the case of NEDL) the Guarantee of the Bonds and this Trust Deed by any payment under the Financial Guarantee; provided that this Clause shall operate only for the purpose of the rights of subrogation of Ambac contemplated by Clause 8.7 ( Subrogation ).
 
8.6   
Return of Financial Guarantee
The Trustee will return the Financial Guarantee to Ambac for cancellation upon:
 
8.6.1  
the redemption in full of the Bonds by the Issuer or NEDL, the payment in full of accrued interest thereon and the expiry of any applicable preference period during which the amount of any payments in respect of the Bonds which are subsequently avoided in whole or in part as a preferential transaction under applicable law may be required to be paid by Ambac under the Financial Guarantee; or
 
8.6.2  
the payment in full of all amounts which are or may become due under the Financial Guarantee.
 
8.7   
Subrogation
Without prejudice to its other rights and remedies, Ambac shall be subrogated to all and any rights of the bearers of the Global Bonds, the Bondholders and the Couponholders against the Issuer and NEDL to the extent of amounts due and payable in respect of the Bonds which have been paid by Ambac under the Financial Guarantee.

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8.8   
Conflict
To the extent that the provisions of this Trust Deed and the Financial Guarantee conflict, the provisions of the Financial Guarantee shall prevail.
 
9.  
COVENANTS BY THE ISSUER AND N EDL
 
So long as any Bond is outstanding, each of the Issuer and NEDL will:
 
9.1  
Books of Account
Keep proper books of account and, at any time after the occurrence of an Issuer Event of Default or a Potential Issuer Event of Default or if the Trustee or Ambac (so long as it is the Controlling Party) has reasonable grounds to believe that any such event has occurred so far as permitted by applicable law, allow and procure that each of its Subsidiaries (if any) will allow the Trustee, Ambac (so long as it is the Controlling Party) and anyone appointed by either of them access to the books of account of the Issuer, NEDL and/or the relevant Subsidiary respectively at all reasonable times during normal business hours and to discuss the same with a responsible officer of the Issuer or NEDL.
 
9.2   
Notice of Issuer Event of Default
Notify the Trustee and Ambac in writing immediately upon becoming aware of the occurrence of any Issuer Event of Default or Potential Issuer Event of Default.
 
9.3   
Information
So far as permitted by applicable law and regulations, give to the Trustee and Ambac such information as they shall require for the performance or the discharge of their respective duties, powers, trusts, authorities and discretions hereunder or under the Financial Guarantee or, in the case of the Trustee, vested in it by operation of law.
 
9.4   
Financial Statements etc.  
Send to the Trustee and Ambac (so long as it is the Controlling Party) at the time of their issue and in the case of annual financial statements in any event not more than 180 days after the end of each financial year one copy (in the English language) of every balance sheet and profit and loss account prepared (in either case) in accordance with United Kingdom generally accepted accounting standards applied on a consistent basis (unless otherwise stated in the notes thereto) and one copy of every other document issued or sent by the Issuer or NEDL to the holders of its publicly held securities generally and, if so requested by the Trustee or Ambac (so long as it is the Controlling Party), one copy of its quarterly balance sheet and profit and loss account when generally available, but in respect of the Issuer, no more than 30 days after the end of the quarter.
 
9.5   
Certificate of Director
Send to the Trustee and Ambac, within 14 days of its annual audited balance sheet and profit and loss account being made available to its members, and also within 14 days after any request by the Trustee or Ambac, a certificate of the Issuer or NEDL, as applicable, signed by two Directors to the effect that, having made all reasonable enquiries, to the best of the knowledge, information and belief of the Directors as at a date (the " Certification Date ") being not more than five days before the date of the certificate no Issuer Event of Default or Potential Issuer Event of Default had occurred since the date of this Trust Deed or, if later, the Certification Date of the last such certificate (if any) and is continuing or, if such an event had occurred, giving details of it, provided however that neither the Issuer nor NEDL shall be required to provide any such certificate more than twice in any calendar year unless the Trustee and/or Ambac reasonably believes that an Issuer Event of Default or a Potential Issuer Event of Default has occurred (in which case the Issuer or, as applicable, NEDL shall not be required to provide a certificate more than once in any two week period).
 

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9.6   
Notices to Bondholders
Send to the Trustee and to Ambac at least five business days before the date of publication, a copy of the form of each notice to the Bondholders to be published in accordance with Condition 17 ( Notices ) and upon publication two copies of each notice so published, (such notice to be in a form approved by the Trustee (such approval not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed)) and Ambac (so long as it is the Controlling Party), but such approval shall not, unless so stated, constitute approval of such notice for the purposes of section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000.
 
9.7   
Further Assurance
So far as permitted by applicable law, at all times execute all such further documents and do all such further acts and things as may be necessary in the opinion of the Trustee and Ambac (so long as it is the Controlling Party) to give effect to the obligations or the Issuer or, as applicable, NEDL under this Trust Deed.
 
9.8   
Notice of non-payment
Use its best efforts to procure that the Principal Paying Agent notifies the Trustee forthwith in accordance with the Paying Agency Agreement in the event that it does not receive unconditionally the full amount in the relevant currency of the moneys payable on the date on which such amount is to be received by the Principal Paying Agent in accordance with the terms of the Paying Agency Agreement.
 
9.9   
Notice of late payment
Give notice to Ambac and to the Bondholders of any unconditional payment to the Principal Paying Agent or the Trustee of any sum due in respect of the Bonds or Coupons made after the due date for such payment.
 
9.10  
Listing
Use all reasonable endeavours to maintain the admission of the Bonds to listing on the Official List of the UK Listing Authority and to trading on the London Stock Exchange plc. If, however, it is unable to do so, having used such endeavours, or if the maintenance of such listing is agreed by the Trustee and Ambac (if then the Controlling Party) to be unduly onerous and the Trustee is satisfied that the interests of the Bondholders would not be thereby materially prejudiced, the Issuer and NEDL will instead use all reasonable endeavours to obtain and maintain a listing or quotation of the Bonds on such other stock exchange (giving notice to the Bondholders of any such new listing), which shall be in any case a "recognised stock exchange" for the purposes of section 841 of the UK Income and Corporation Taxes Act 1988, as it may (with the written approval of the Trustee and Ambac (if then the Controlling Party)) decide, and each of the Issuer and NEDL shall also use all reasonable endeavours to procure that there will at all times be furnished to any stock exchange or listing authority on which the Bonds are for the time being listed such information as such stock exchange or listing authority may require to be furnished in accordance with its normal requirements or in accordance with any arrangements for the time being made with any such stock exchange or listing authority .

 
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9.11  
Maintenance of Paying Agents
At all times maintain a Principal Paying Agent having a specified office in London and, if European Council Directive 2003/48/EC or any other Directive implementing the conclusions of the ECOFIN Council meeting of 26-27 November 2000 is brought into force, a paying agent in a member state of the European Union that will not be obliged to withhold or deduct tax pursuant to such Directive or any law implementing or complying with, or introduced to conform to, such Directive.
 
9.12  
Change in Agents
Give not less than 14 days' prior notice to the Bondholders and to Ambac of any future appointment or any resignation or removal of any Paying Agent or of any change by any Paying Agent of its specified office and not make any such appointment or removal or change without the written approval of the Trustee and Ambac (so long as it is the Controlling Party).
 
9.13  
Early Redemption
Give prior notice to the Trustee and to Ambac (within the period set out in such Conditions as applicable) of any proposed redemption pursuant to Condition 7(b) ( Redemption at the option of the Issuer ) or 7(c) ( Redemption for tax reasons ) and redeem Bonds accordingly.
 
9.14  
Negative Pledge
Give notice to the Trustee and to Ambac as soon as practicable after the Issuer or NEDL has formed the intention to create or permit to arise or subsist any Security Interest to secure any Relevant Indebtedness or any guarantee of or indemnity in respect of any Relevant Indebtedness or becomes aware of the existence of any such Security Interest, in each case where the creation or existence of which would oblige the Security Interest to be extended to the Bonds pursuant to Condition 4 ( Negative Pledge ).
 
9.15  
Obligations under Paying Agency Agreement
Comply with and perform all its obligations under the Paying Agency Agreement and use all its best endeavours to procure that the Paying Agents comply with and perform all their respective obligations thereunder and any notice given by the Trustee pursuant to sub-clause 2.4.1 of Clause 2.4 ( Payment after a Default ) and notify the Trustee and Ambac (if then the Controlling Party) forthwith on being notified in writing by the relevant Paying Agent of any material breach of the Paying Agency Agreement by such Paying Agent and not make any amendment or modification to such Agreement without the prior written approval of the Trustee and Ambac (if then the Controlling Party).
 

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9.16  
List of authorised signatories
Upon the execution of this Trust Deed and thereafter upon any change of the same, deliver to the Trustee (with a copy to the Principal Paying Agent and Ambac) a list of the authorised signatories of the Issuer and NEDL, together with a certified specimen signature of each such authorised signatory.
 
9.17  
Director's Certificate
Give to the Trustee and Ambac a certificate of two Directors of the Issuer and NEDL:
 
9.17.1  
specifying the aggregate amount of any Relevant Indebtedness of the Issuer or guaranteed by the Issuer, NEDL or any of their respective Subsidiaries in respect of which a Security Interest or Security Interests has or have been created or is or are outstanding, such certificate to be provided before the Issuer, NEDL or such Subsidiary creates or has outstanding any new Security Interest in respect of Relevant Indebtedness;
 
9.17.2  
specifying the then current Interest Cover ratio, such certificate to be provided by NEDL not more than 60 days after 30 June and 31 December of each year;
 
9.17.3  
specifying the then current ratio of NEDL Senior Total Net Debt to RAV, such certificate to be provided before the Issuer or, as applicable, NEDL incurs any Financial Indebtedness (other than Permitted Financial Indebtedness) or recommends, makes or pays any Distribution to any of its shareholders;
 
9.17.4  
specifying details of:
 
(a)  
any revocation or surrender or any modification to the terms and conditions of NEDL's Electricity Distribution Licence which is requisite to the conduct of NEDL's business at the relevant time;
 
(b)  
any legislation enacted which removes, qualifies or amends (other than an amendment which is of a formal, minor or technical nature) the duties of the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (or any successor) and/or OFGEM under the Electricity Act as in force on the Issue Date; and
 
(c)  
any proposal of any amendment to the provisions of the memorandum and articles of association for the time being of the Issuer or NEDL described in Condition 10(a)(iii),
 
9.18  
Certificate of Outstandings
In order to enable the Trustee to ascertain the amount of Bonds for the time being outstanding and Ambac to ascertain the extent of the Guaranteed Obligations, deliver to the Trustee and Ambac within 28 days of being requested by the Trustee or Ambac, as the case may be, a certificate in writing signed by two Directors of the Issuer setting out the total number and principal amount of Bonds which up to and including the date being no more than 10 days before the date of the certificate have been purchased and not cancelled and are held by or on behalf of the Issuer, NEDL, CE Electric UK Funding Company or any Affiliate, Holding Company or Subsidiary of the foregoing, provided that neither the Trustee nor Ambac may request such a certificate more than once in any calendar year

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.
10.   
COVENANTS BY AMBAC
Ambac hereby covenants with the Trustee and, in respect of Clauses 10.1 ( Financial Information of Ambac ), 10.3 ( Information for Stock Exchange ), 10.4 ( Further Assurance ), 10.5 ( Notification of Ambac Event of Default ), 10.6 ( Confirmation of no Ambac Event of Default ), 10.7 ( Notice to Bondholders ) and 10.8 ( List of Authorised Signatories ) below, with the Issuer and NEDL, that so long as any of the Bonds remain outstanding, it will:
 
10.1   
Financial information of Ambac
Send to the Trustee and to the Issuer and NEDL at the time of issue thereof and in any event not more than 180 days after the end of each of its financial years one copy of every audited balance sheet and audited income statement prepared (in either case) in accordance with United Kingdom generally accepted accounting standards applied on a consistent basis (unless otherwise stated in the notes to such financial statements) and, if so requested by the Trustee, the Issuer or NEDL, one copy of its quarterly balance sheet and income statement when generally available.
 
10.2  
Information
So far as permitted by applicable law and regulatory requirements, at all times give to the Trustee such information as may be required for the purpose of the discharge of the duties, powers, trusts, authorities and discretions vested in it by this Trust Deed or by operation of law.
 
10.3   
Information for stock exchange
Use its reasonable endeavours to procure that, at the request of the Issuer, there will at all times be furnished at the expense of the Issuer to any stock exchange or listing authority on which the Bonds are for the time being listed such information concerning Ambac and the Financial Guarantee as such stock exchange or listing authority may require to be furnished in accordance with its normal requirements or in accordance with any arrangements for the time being made by the Issuer with such stock exchange with the prior approval of Ambac (such approval not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed).
 
10.4   
Further assurance
So far as permitted by applicable law and regulatory requirements, execute all such further documents and do all further acts and things which are necessary at any time in the opinion of the Trustee to give effect to the provisions of this Trust Deed and the Financial Guarantee.
 

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10.5  
Notification of Ambac Event of Default
Give notice in writing to the Trustee, with a copy to the Issuer and NEDL, forthwith upon becoming aware of the occurrence of any Ambac Event of Default.
 
10.6  
Confirmation of no Ambac Event of Default  
Deliver to the Trustee at least once in every financial year and as soon as practicable after being so requested in writing by the Trustee, a certificate of Ambac signed by an authorised signatory of Ambac certifying that at the date thereof, to the best of Ambac's knowledge and belief having made all reasonable enquiries, no Ambac Event of Default has occurred or, if it has, specifying such Ambac Event of Default and stating when it occurred and whether it is continuing, provided, however , that Ambac shall not be required to provide such a certificate more than twice in any calendar year unless the Trustee reasonably believes that an Ambac Event of Default has occurred (in which event Ambac shall not be required to provide such a certificate more than once in any two week period).
 
10.7  
Notice to Bondholders  
Send to the Trustee, with a copy to the Issuer and NEDL, a copy of the form of any notice to be given to the Bondholders by Ambac and will not publish any such notice until the same has been approved by the Trustee (which approval shall not, unless so stated, constitute approval of such notice for the purposes of section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000).
 
10.8   
List of Authorised Signatories  
Upon the execution of this Trust Deed and thereafter forthwith upon any change of the same, deliver to the Trustee (with a copy to the Principal Paying Agent, the Issuer and NEDL) a list of the authorised signatories of Ambac, together with a certified specimen signature of each such authorised signatory.
 
11.   
COVENANTS BY THE ISSUER AND NEDL IN FAVOUR OF AMBAC
 
11.1  
The Issuer hereby covenants with and undertakes to Ambac that, so long as any of the Bonds remain outstanding and for so long as no Ambac Event of Default has occurred and is continuing (and provided that the covenants in this Clause 11 will continue where any Ambac Event of Default relating to paragraph (a)(i) of the definition of "Ambac Event of Default" (as defined in the Conditions) is caused solely by an administrative or technical error which is cured within two Business Days of such Ambac Event of Default first arising), (with respect to itself) that it will, and NEDL hereby covenants with and undertakes to Ambac (with respect to itself) that it will and will procure that the Issuer will, comply with the following covenants and restrictions:
 
11.1.1  
it shall:
  

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(a)  
(in the case of NEDL) not modify or amend, or agree to any modification or amendment to the Electricity Distribution Licence without the consent of OFGEM;
 
(b)  
use all reasonable endeavours to procure that the underlying or shadow credit rating of the Bonds and any outstanding public long term unsecured, unguaranteed and unsubordinated debt of NEDL (and any outstanding public long-term unsecured and unsubordinated debt of the Issuer, guaranteed only by NEDL) are assigned Investment Grade Ratings by both Rating Agencies, and that such Investment Grade Ratings are maintained;
 
(c)  
not, without the prior written consent of Ambac, agree to any amendment to the provisions of the memorandum and articles of association for the time being of the Issuer and/or NEDL (as applicable) that (x) restrict the activities in which any of the Issuer, NEDL or any of their respective Subsidiaries (as applicable) may engage or participate in, (y) limit the disposal by any such company of any or all of its assets, revenues or properties of any nature whatsoever and (z) limit the Incurrence of Indebtedness by any such company, provided that this paragraph (iii) shall not apply to any such amendment required by OFGEM and, if such amendment is required by OFGEM, the Issuer and/or NEDL shall notify Ambac in writing as soon as practicable of such requirement;
 
(d)  
procure that no Security Interest is created or granted upon, or with respect to, any of the present or future ordinary shares of the Issuer, NEDL or any of their respective Subsidiaries;
 
(e)  
not, without the prior written consent of Ambac, modify or amend, or consent to any modification or amendment of any Existing Negative Pledge;
 
(f)  
not have any subsidiary undertaking (as defined in the Companies Act) except (in the case of NEDL) for the Issuer, unless required to do so by OFGEM or consequent to any rule or regulation of OFGEM which is applicable to NEDL; and
 
(g)  
procure that NEDL will at all times continue to own, directly or indirectly, 100% of the issued share capital of the Issuer.
 
11.1.2  
NEDL will procure that:
 
(a)  
Interest Cover for each Relevant Period ending on or prior to 31 December 2006 shall be not less than 2.00:1; and
 
(b)  
Interest Cover for each Relevant Period ending after 31 December 2006 shall not be less than 2.50:1;
 

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11.1.3  
the Issuer shall not, and NEDL will procure that the Issuer will not, incur any further Financial Indebtedness other than Permitted Financial Indebtedness unless the following conditions are satisfied:
 
(a)  
if such Financial Indebtedness is incurred:
 
 
(i)  
in the period commencing on the Issue Date and ending on 30 December 2008, the ratio of NEDL Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Financial Indebtedness is to be incurred and after giving effect to the gross proposed Financial Indebtedness on a pro forma basis but less cash raised to the extent that it is retained for (i) redemption of existing indebtedness or (ii) Capital Investment) to RAV does not exceed 0.68:1; or
 
(ii)  
on or after 31 December 2008, the ratio of NEDL Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Financial Indebtedness is to be incurred and after giving effect to the gross proposed Financial Indebtedness on a pro forma basis but less cash raised to the extent that it is retained for (i) redemption of existing indebtedness or (ii) Capital Investment) to RAV does not exceed 0.65:1; and
 
(b)  
such Financial Indebtedness (save for any Financial Indebtedness which in aggregate does not exceed 5% of RAV) ranks no higher than pari passu with the Bonds.
 
11.1.4  
NEDL will not incur any further Financial Indebtedness other than Permitted Financial Indebtedness unless the following conditions are satisfied:
 
(a)  
if such Financial Indebtedness is incurred:
 
(i)  
in the period commencing on the Issue Date and ending on 30 December 2008, the ratio of NEDL Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Financial Indebtedness is to be incurred and after giving effect to the gross proposed Financial Indebtedness on a pro forma basis but less cash raised to the extent that it is retained for (i) redemption of existing indebtedness or (ii) Capital Investment) to RAV does not exceed 0.68:1; or
 
(ii)  
on or after 31 December 2008, the ratio of NEDL Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Financial Indebtedness is to be incurred and after giving effect to the gross proposed Financial Indebtedness on a pro forma basis but less cash raised to the extent that it is retained for (i) redemption of existing indebtedness or (ii) Capital Investment) to RAV does not exceed 0.65:1; and
 

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(b)  
such Financial Indebtedness (save for any Financial Indebtedness which in aggregate does not exceed 5% of RAV) ranks no higher than pari passu with NEDL's present and future unsecured payment obligations or with NEDL's obligations under the Guarantee of the Bonds.
 
11.1.5  
NEDL will not make any Distribution unless:
 
 
(a)  
in the period commencing on the Issue Date and ending on 30 December 2006, the ratio of NEDL Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Distribution is to be made and calculated on a pro forma basis as if the Distribution had been made) to RAV does not exceed 0.79:1;
 
(b)  
in the period commencing on 31 December 2006 and ending on 30 December 2007, the ratio of NEDL Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Distribution is to be made and calculated on a pro forma basis as if the Distribution had been made) to RAV does not exceed 0.77:1; and
 
(c)  
on or after 31 December 2007, the ratio of NEDL Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Distribution is to be made and calculated on a pro forma basis as if the Distribution had been made) to RAV does not exceed 0.75:1.
 
12.  
REMUNERATION AND INDEMNIFICATION OF THE TRUSTEE
 
12.1  
Normal Remuneration
So long as any Bond is outstanding the Issuer (failing which, NEDL) will pay to the Trustee by way of remuneration for its services as Trustee such sum as may from time to time be agreed between them. Such remuneration will accrue from day to day from the date of this Trust Deed and shall be payable on such dates as may from time to time be agreed between the Issuer and the Trustee. However, if any payment to a Bondholder or Couponholder of the moneys due in respect of any Bond or Coupon is improperly withheld or refused upon due presentation of such Bond or Coupon, such remuneration will again accrue as from the date of such presentation until payment to such Bondholder or Couponholder is duly made.
 
12.2   
Extra Remuneration
At any time after the occurrence of an Issuer Event of Default or an Ambac Event of Default or if the Trustee finds it expedient or necessary or is requested by the Issuer or NEDL to undertake duties which the Trustee and the Issuer agree to be of an exceptional nature or otherwise outside the scope of the normal duties of the Trustee under this Trust Deed, the Issuer (failing which, NEDL) will pay such additional remuneration as may be agreed between them or, failing agreement as to any of the matters in this Clause 12.2 (or as to such sums referred to in Clause 12.1 ( Normal Remuneration )) as determined by a merchant or investment bank (acting as an expert) selected by the Trustee and approved by the Issuer or NEDL or, failing such approval, nominated by the President for the time being of The Law Society of England and Wales, the expenses involved in such nomination and the fee of such merchant or investment bank being paid by the Issuer (failing which, NEDL). The determination of such merchant or investment bank will be conclusive and binding on the Issuer, NEDL, the Trustee, the Bondholders and the Couponholders, save in the case of manifest error.
 

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12.3   
Expenses
The Issuer (failing which, NEDL) will also pay or discharge all costs, charges, liabilities and expenses properly incurred by the Trustee in relation to the preparation and execution of this Trust Deed and the carrying out of its functions under this Trust Deed including, but not limited to, legal and travelling expenses and any stamp registration, documentary or other taxes or duties paid by the Trustee in connection with any legal proceedings brought or contemplated by the Trustee against the Issuer or NEDL for enforcing any obligation of the Issuer or NEDL under this Trust Deed, the Bonds, the Guarantee of the Bonds or the Coupons.
 
12.4  
Payment of Expenses
All costs, charges, liabilities and expenses properly incurred and payments properly made by the Trustee in the lawful performance of its functions under this Trust Deed will be payable or reimbursable by the Issuer (failing which, NEDL) on demand by the Trustee and:
 
12.4.1  
in the case of payments made by the Trustee prior to such demand will carry interest from the date on which the demand is made at the rate of 2 per cent. per annum over the base rate of HSBC Bank Plc on the date on which such payments were made by the Trustee; and
 
12.4.2  
in all other cases will carry interest at such rate from 30 days after the date on which the demand is made or (where the demand specifies that payment is to be made on an earlier date) from such earlier date.
 
12.5  
Indemnity
Subject to the provisions of Clause 14 ( Trustee Liable for Negligence ), the Issuer (failing which, NEDL) will indemnify the Trustee in respect of all liabilities and expenses properly incurred by it or by anyone appointed by it or to whom any of its functions may be delegated by it in the carrying out of its functions under this Trust Deed and against any loss, liability, cost, claim, action, demand or expense (including, but not limited to, all costs, charges and expenses paid or incurred in disputing or defending any of the foregoing) which any of them may incur or which may be made against any of them arising out of or in relation to or in connection with, its appointment or the proper exercise of its function.
 
12.6  
Provisions Continuing
The provisions of Clauses 12.3 ( Expenses ), 12.4 ( Payment of Expenses ) and 12.5 ( Indemnity ) will continue in full force and effect in relation to the Trustee even if it may have ceased to be Trustee.
 

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13.  
PROVISIONS SUPPLEMENTAL TO THE TRUSTEE ACT 1925
 
By way of supplement to the Trustee Act 1925 and the Trustee Act 2000 it is expressly declared as follows:
 
13.1  
Advice
The Trustee may act on the opinion or advice of or information obtained from, any expert (whether obtained by the Issuer, NEDL, Ambac, the Trustee, the Principal Paying Agent, or any other person whatsoever) and which opinion or advice may be provided on such terms (including as to limitations on liability) as the Trustee may consider in its sole discretion to be consistent with prevailing market practice with regard to advice or opinions of that nature and will not be responsible to anyone for any loss occasioned by so acting. Any such opinion, advice or information may be sent or obtained by letter, telex or facsimile transmission and the Trustee will not be liable to anyone for acting in good faith on any opinion, advice or information purporting to be conveyed by such means even if it contains some error or is not authentic.
 
13.2  
Trustee to Assume Due Performance
The Trustee need not notify anyone of the execution of this Trust Deed or do anything to ascertain whether any Issuer Event of Default, Potential Issuer Event of Default, Restructuring Event, Negative Rating Event, Rating Downgrade or any event which could lead to the occurrence of or could constitute an Issuer Event of Default, a Potential Issuer Event of Default, a Restructuring Event, a Negative Rating Event or a Rating Downgrade has occurred and, until it has actual knowledge or express notice to the contrary, the Trustee may assume that no such event has occurred and that the Issuer and NEDL are performing all of their respective obligations under this Trust Deed, the Bonds and the Coupons.
 
13.3  
Resolutions of Bondholders
The Trustee will not be responsible for having acted in good faith upon a resolution purporting to have been passed at a meeting of Bondholders in respect of which minutes have been made and signed even though it may later be found that there was a defect in the constitution of such meeting or the passing of such resolution or that such resolution was not valid or binding upon the Bondholders or the Couponholders.
 
13.4   
Certificate signed by a Director or Authorised Signatory
The Trustee may call for and may accept as sufficient evidence of any fact or matter or of the expediency of any act a certificate of the Issuer or NEDL signed by any two Directors or Authorised Signatories of the Issuer, NEDL or Ambac (as the case may be) as to any fact or matter upon which the Trustee may, in the exercise of any of its functions, required to be satisfied or to have information to the effect that, in the opinion of the person so certifying, any particular act is expedient and the Trustee need not call for further evidence and will not be responsible for any loss that may be occasioned by acting on any such certificate.
 

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13.5   
Custodians and nominees
The Trustee may appoint and pay any person to act as a custodian or nominee on any terms in relation to such assets of the trust as the Trustee may determine, including for the purpose of depositing with a custodian this Trust Deed or any document relating to the trust created hereunder and the Trustee shall not be responsible for any loss, liability, expense, demand, cost, claim or proceedings incurred by reason of the misconduct, omission or default on the part of any person appointed by it hereunder or be bound to supervise the proceedings or acts of any such person; the Trustee is not obliged to appoint a custodian if the Trustee invests in securities payable to bearer.
 
13.6  
Agents
Whenever it considers it expedient in the interests of the Bondholders, the Trustee may, in the conduct of its trust business, instead of acting personally, employ and pay an agent selected by it, whether or not a lawyer or other professional person, to transact or conduct, or concur in transacting or conducting, any business and to do or concur in doing all acts required to be done by the Trustee (including the receipt and payment of money). Provided it has exercised reasonable care in the selection of such agent, the Trustee will not be responsible to anyone for any misconduct or omission on the part of any such agent so employed by it or be bound to supervise the proceedings or acts of any such agent.
 
13.7   
Delegation
Whenever it considers it expedient in the interests of the Bondholders, the Trustee may delegate to any person and on any terms (including power to sub-delegate) all or any of its functions. If the Trustee exercises reasonable care in the selection of such delegate, it will not be under any obligation to supervise such delegate or be responsible for any loss, liability, cost, claim, action, demand or expense incurred by reason of any misconduct or default by any such delegate or sub-delegate.
 
13.8   
Forged Bonds
The Trustee will not be liable to the Issuer, NEDL, Ambac or any Bondholder or Couponholder by reason of having accepted as valid or not having rejected any Bond or Coupon purporting to be such and later found to be forged or not authentic.
 
13.9   
Confidentiality
Unless ordered to do so by a court of competent jurisdiction the Trustee shall not be required to disclose to any Bondholder, Couponholder or Ambac any confidential financial or other information made available to the Trustee by the Issuer or any of its Subsidiaries.
 
13.10  
Determinations Conclusive
Subject to Conditions 14 ( Enforcement ) and 15 ( Controlling Party ) and Clause 20 ( Controlling Party ), as between itself and the Bondholders and Couponholders the Trustee may determine all questions and doubts arising in relation to any of the provisions of this Trust Deed. Every such determination, whether made upon such a question actually raised or implied in the acts or proceedings of the Trustee, will be conclusive and shall bind the Trustee, Ambac, the Bondholders and the Couponholders.
 

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13.11  
Currency Conversion
Where it is necessary or desirable to convert any sum from one currency to another, it will (unless otherwise provided hereby or required by law) be converted at such rate or rates, in accordance with such method and as at such date as may be specified by the Trustee but having regard to current rates of exchange, if available. Any rate, method and date so specified will be binding on the Issuer, NEDL, the Bondholders and the Couponholders. This Clause 13.11 applies both to actual conversions and to notional conversions made for the purposes of establishing the equivalent of a sum in one currency in another currency.
 
13.12  
Issuer Events of Default
Subject to Conditions 10 ( Covenants by the Issuer and NEDL to Ambac ), 11 ( Issuer Events of Default ) and 15 ( Controlling Party) and Clause 20 ( Controlling Party ), the Trustee may determine whether or not a default in the performance or observance by the Issuer of any of its obligations under this Trust Deed is in its opinion capable of remedy and/or whether or not any event is in its opinion materially adverse or prejudicial (as applicable) to the interests of the Bondholders. Any such determination will be conclusive and binding upon the Issuer, Ambac, the Bondholders and the Couponholders.
 
13.13  
Payment for and Delivery of Bonds
The Trustee will not be responsible for the receipt or application by the Issuer of the proceeds of the issue of the Bonds, the exchange of the Temporary Global Bond for the Permanent Global Bond or of the Permanent Global Bond for any definitive Bonds or the delivery of definitive Bonds to the persons entitled to them.
 
13.14  
Responsibility
The Trustee assumes no responsibility for the correctness of Recitals (A), (B) or (D) to this Trust Deed which shall be taken as statements by the Issuer, NEDL and Ambac respectively, nor shall the Trustee by the execution of these presents be deemed to make any representation as to the validity, sufficiency or enforceability of this Trust Deed or any part thereof and makes no representation with respect thereto.
 
13.15  
Trustee's discretion
Save as expressly otherwise provided in this Trust Deed (including the Conditions), the Trustee shall have absolute and uncontrolled discretion as to the exercise or non-exercise of its trusts, powers, authorities and discretions under these presents (the exercise or non-exercise of which as between the Trustee, the Bondholders and the Couponholders shall be conclusive and binding on Ambac, the Bondholders and Couponholders) and, subject to Clause 14 ( Trustee Liable for Negligence ), shall not be responsible for any loss, liability, cost, claim, action, demand, expense or inconvenience which may result from their exercise or non-exercise.
 
 
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13.16  
Consents
Save as expressly otherwise provided in this Trust Deed (including the Conditions), any consent or approval given by the Trustee for the purposes of this Trust Deed may be given on such terms and subject to such conditions (if any) as the Trustee thinks fit and notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Trust Deed may be given retrospectively.
 
13.17   
Professional Charges
Any trustee of this Trust Deed being a lawyer, accountant, broker or other person engaged in any professional or business shall be entitled to charge and be paid all usual professional and other charges for business transacted and acts done by him or his firm in connection with the trusts of this Trust Deed and also his reasonable charges in addition to disbursements for all other work and business done and all time spent by him or his firm in connection with matters arising in connection with this Trust Deed.
 
13.18  
Bondholders as a class
In connection with the exercise of its trusts, powers or discretions (including but not limited to those in relation to any proposed modification, waiver, authorisation, or substitution) the Trustee shall have regard to the general interests of the Bondholders as a class and, in particular, but without limitation, shall not have regard to the consequences of such exercise for individual Bondholders and Couponholders resulting from their being for any purpose domiciled or resident in, or otherwise connected with, or subject to the jurisdiction of, any particular territory and the Trustee shall not be entitled to require, nor shall any Bondholder or Couponholder be entitled to claim, from the Issuer, NEDL, Ambac or the Trustee any indemnification or payment in respect of any tax consequences of any such exercise upon individual Bondholders or Couponholders except to the extent provided for in Condition 8 ( Taxation ) and/or any undertaking given in addition to, or in substitution for, Condition 8 ( Taxation ) pursuant to this Trust Deed.
 
13.19  
Ratings
The Trustee shall have no responsibility for the maintenance of any rating of the Bonds by any rating agency or any other person.
 
13.20  
Validity of documents
The Trustee shall not be responsible for, or for investigating any matter which is the subject of, any recital, statement, representation, warranty or covenant of any person contained in this Trust Deed, the Bonds, or any other agreement or document relating to the transactions herein or therein contemplated or for the execution, delivery, legality, effectiveness, adequacy, genuineness, validity enforceability or admissibility in evidence of this Trust Deed or any other document relating or expressed to be supplemental thereto and shall not be liable for any failure to obtain any licence, consent or other authority for the execution, delivery, legality, effectiveness, adequacy, genuineness, validity, performance, enforceability or admissibility in evidence of this Trust Deed or any other document relating to or expressed to be supplemental thereto.

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13.21  
Disapplication
Section 1 of the Trustee Act 2000 shall not apply to the duties of the Trustee in relation to the trusts constituted by this Trust Deed. Where there are any inconsistencies between the Trustee Acts and the provisions of this Trust Deed, the provisions of this Trust Deed shall, to the extent allowed by law, prevail and, in the case of any such inconsistency with the Trustee Act 2000, the provisions of this Trust Deed shall constitute a restriction or exclusion for the purposes of that Act.
 
14.  
TRUSTEE LIABLE FOR NEGLIGENCE
Nothing in this Trust Deed shall in any case in which the Trustee has failed to show the degree of care and diligence required of it as trustee, having regard to the provisions of this Deed, relieve or indemnify it from or against any liability which by virtue of any rule of law would otherwise attach to it in respect of any negligence, default, breach of duty or breach of trust of which it may be guilty.
 
15.  
WAIVER
 
15.1   
Waiver
Subject to Condition 15 ( Controlling Party ) and Clause 20 ( Controlling Party ), the Trustee may, other than in respect of the matters detailed in the proviso to paragraph 19 of Schedule 5 ( Provisions for Meetings of Bondholders ) subject to the prior written consent of Ambac (if Ambac is then the Controlling Party), without the consent of the Bondholders or Couponholders and without prejudice to its rights in respect of any subsequent breach, from time to time and at any time, if in its opinion the interests of the Bondholders will not be materially prejudiced thereby, waive or authorise, on such terms and conditions as seems expedient to it, any breach or proposed breach by the Issuer or NEDL of any of the provisions of this Trust Deed or the Bonds or determine that any event, condition or act which would otherwise be an Issuer Event of Default or Potential Issuer Event of Default will not be treated as such provided that where the Trustee is the Controlling Party, it will not do so in contravention of any express direction given by any Extraordinary Resolution or a written request made pursuant to Condition 11 ( Issuer Events of Default ) but no such direction or request will affect any previous waiver, authorisation or determination. Any such waiver, authorisation or determination will be binding on the Bondholders and the Couponholders and, if the Trustee so requires, will be notified to the Bondholders as soon as practicable.
 
15.2  
Enforcement Proceedings
At any time after amounts in respect of principal of and interest on the Bonds or amounts payable by Ambac under the Financial Guarantee shall have become due and payable but are unpaid, the Trustee may, at its discretion, and without further notice but subject as mentioned below, take such proceedings against, respectively:
 
15.2.1  
the Issuer and/or NEDL as it may think fit to enforce the provisions of this Trust Deed in accordance with the terms hereof; and/or
 
15.2.2  
Ambac as it may think fit to enforce the provisions of the Financial Guarantee.
 

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If the Trustee is not the Controlling Party it shall not be permitted to take any such proceedings as are referred to in Clause 15.2.1 above against the Issuer and/or NEDL unless it has been directed by the Controlling Party to do so and shall only be bound to take proceedings against the Issuer and/or NEDL at the direction of the Controlling Party if it has been indemnified to its satisfaction by the Controlling Party. If the Trustee is the Controlling Party, it shall only be bound to take proceedings pursuant to Clause 15.2.1. or 15.2.2 if it has been indemnified to its satisfaction by the Bondholders and it has been so requested in writing by the holders of not less than 25 per cent. of the principal amount outstanding of the Bonds or has been so directed by an Extraordinary Resolution.
 
15.3  
No action by Bondholders or Couponholders
Subject as provided in this Trust Deed (including the Conditions) only the Trustee may pursue the remedies available under general law or under this Trust Deed to enforce the rights of the Bondholders or Couponholders and no such holder will be entitled to proceed against the Issuer or Ambac unless the Trustee, having become bound to act in accordance with the terms of this Trust Deed, fails to do so and such failure is continuing. If, in connection with any insolvency, bankruptcy, administration, dissolution, liquidation or analogous procedure relating to the Issuer or NEDL, a payment on the Bonds by the Issuer or NEDL is claimed to be or is avoided as a preferential transfer, Ambac may ( provided that Ambac is then the Controlling Party) direct all matters relating to such claim or avoidance on behalf of the Trustee, the Bondholders and the Couponholders.
 
16.  
TRUSTEE NOT PRECLUDED FROM ENTERING INTO CONTRACTS
 
No person, whether acting for itself or in any other capacity, will be precluded from becoming the owner of, or acquiring any interest in, holding or disposing of any Bond or Coupon or any shares or securities of the Issuer or NEDL or any of its subsidiary, holding or associated companies with the same rights as it would have had if the Trustee were not Trustee or from entering into or being interested in any contracts or transactions with the Issuer or its subsidiary, holding or associated companies or from acting on, or as depositary or agent for, any committee or body of holders of any securities of the Issuer or its subsidiary, holding or associated companies and will not be liable to account for any profit.
 
17.  
MODIFICATION AND SUBSTITUTION
 
The provision in this Clause 17 shall be subject to Condition 15 ( Controlling Party ) and Clause 20 ( Controlling Party ).
 
17.1   
Modification
Subject to the prior written consent of Ambac (if Ambac is then the Controlling Party) the Trustee may, without the consent of the Bondholders or Couponholders, agree (i) to any modification to this Trust Deed or the Conditions or the Financial Guarantee which is of a formal, minor or technical nature or is made to correct a manifest error or (ii) other than in respect of the matters detailed in the proviso to paragraph 19 of Schedule 5 ( Provisions for Meetings of Bondholders ) to any modification to this Trust Deed, the Conditions or the Financial Guarantee which is in its opinion not materially prejudicial to the interests of the Bondholders. Any such modification shall be binding on the Bondholders and the Couponholders and, unless the Trustee agrees otherwise, the Issuer shall cause such modification to be notified to the Bondholders as soon as practicable thereafter in accordance with the Conditions. Notwithstanding the provisions of the foregoing, the Issuer and Ambac may, without the consent of the Bondholders or Couponholders, agree to any modification to Condition 10 ( Covenants by the Issuer and NEDL to Ambac ) and to Clause 11 ( Covenants by the Issuer and NEDL in favour of Ambac ) of this Trust Deed.

 
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17.2   
Substitution
17.2.1  
The Trustee may, without the consent of the Bondholders or Couponholders, agree with the Issuer, but with the consent of Ambac (if Ambac is then the Controlling Party) (such consent not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed), to the substitution of NEDL or any wholly-owned Subsidiary of NEDL (the " Substituted Obligor ") in place of the Issuer (or of any previous substitute under this sub-clause 17.2.1 ) as the principal debtor under this Trust Deed, the Bonds and the Coupons provided that , in the opinion of the Trustee, the interests of the Bondholders will not be materially prejudiced thereby and also provided that :
 
(a)  
a trust deed is executed or some other form of undertaking is given by the Substituted Obligor to the Trustee, in form and manner satisfactory to the Trustee, agreeing to be bound by the terms of this Trust Deed, the Bonds and the Coupons with any consequential amendments which the Trustee may deem appropriate as fully as if the Substituted Obligor had been named in this Trust Deed and on the Bonds and Coupons as the principal debtor in place of the Issuer;
 
(b)  
where the Substituted Obligor is subject generally to the taxing jurisdiction of any territory or any authority of or in that territory having power to tax (the " Substituted Territory ") other than the territory to the taxing jurisdiction of which (or to any such authority of or in which) the Issuer is subject generally (the " Issuer's Territory' ) the Substituted Obligor will (unless the Trustee otherwise agrees) give to the Trustee an undertaking in form and manner satisfactory to the Trustee in terms corresponding to the terms of Condition 8 ( Taxation ) with the substitution for the references in that Condition to the Issuer's Territory of references to the Substituted Territory and Condition 7(c) ( Redemption for tax reasons ) shall be modified accordingly; and in such event the Trust Deed, the Bonds and the Coupons will be read accordingly;
 
(c)  
if any two of the Directors of the Substituted Obligor certify that it will be solvent immediately after such substitution, the Trustee need not have regard to the financial condition, profits or prospects of the Substituted Obligor or compare them with those of the Issuer;
 

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(d)  
the Issuer and the Substituted Obligor comply with such other requirements as the Trustee may direct in the interests of the Bondholders; and
 
(e)  
(unless the Issuer's successor in business is the Substituted Obligor) the obligations of the Substituted Obligor under this Trust Deed, the Bonds and the Coupons are unconditionally and irrevocably guaranteed by the Issuer or NEDL (save where NEDL is the Substituted Obligor) in form and manner satisfactory to the Trustee.
 
17.2.2  
Release of Substituted Issuer : Any such agreement by the Trustee pursuant to this Clause 17.2 will, if so expressed, operate to release the Issuer (or any such previous substitute) from any or all of its obligations under this Trust Deed, the Bonds and the Coupons. Not later than 14 days after the execution of any such documents and after compliance with such requirements, notice of the substitution will be given to the Bondholders.
 
17.2.3  
Completion of Substitution : Upon the execution of such documents and compliance with such requirements, the Substituted Obligor will be deemed to be named in this Trust Deed and the Financial Guarantee and on the Bonds and Coupons as the principal debtor in place of the Issuer (or of any previous substitute under this Clause 17.2 ) and this Trust Deed, the Financial Guarantee, the Bonds and the Coupons will be deemed to be modified in such manner as shall be necessary to give effect to the substitution.
 
18.  
APPOINTMENT, RETIREMENT AND REMOVAL OF THE TRUSTEE
 
18.1  
Appointment
The Issuer and NEDL (acting together) will have the power of appointing new trustees but no person will be so appointed unless previously approved by an Extraordinary Resolution of Bondholders and approved in writing by Ambac (if then the Controlling Party). A trust corporation will at all times be a Trustee and may be the sole Trustee. Any appointment of a new Trustee will be notified by the Issuer to the Bondholders as soon as practicable.
 
18.2   
Retirement and Removal
The Trustee may not resign its appointment unless a successor, willing to act in such capacity, has been appointed by the Issuer and NEDL (acting together) with the prior consent of Ambac (if Ambac is then the Controlling Party) and the Bondholders by Extraordinary Resolution, provided that the Trustee shall not be prevented from resigning its appointment if, having given notice in writing to the Issuer and Ambac (if Ambac is then the Controlling Party) of its intention to resign its appointment, a successor is not appointed within the period of three months from the date of such notice. The Bondholders may by Extraordinary Resolution remove any Trustee provided that the retirement or removal of any sole trustee or sole trust corporation will not become effective until a trust corporation is appointed as successor Trustee. If a sole trustee or sole trust corporation gives notice of retirement or an Extraordinary Resolution is passed for its removal under this Clause 18.2 , the Issuer will use its best endeavours to procure that another trust corporation be appointed as Trustee.

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18.3   
Co-Trustees
The Trustee may, despite Clause 18.1 ( Appointment ), by notice in writing to the Issuer appoint anyone to act as an additional Trustee jointly with the Trustee:
 
18.3.1  
if the Trustee considers such appointment to be in the interests of the Bondholders and/or the Couponholders;
 
18.3.2  
for the purpose of conforming with any legal requirement, restriction or condition in any jurisdiction in which any particular act is to be performed; or
 
18.3.3  
for the purpose of obtaining a judgment in any jurisdiction or the enforcement in any jurisdiction against the Issuer or NEDL of either a judgment already obtained or any of the provisions of this Trust Deed.
 
Subject to the provisions of this Trust Deed the Trustee may confer on any person so appointed such functions as it thinks fit. The Trustee may by notice in writing to the Issuer and such person remove any person so appointed. At the request of the Trustee, the Issuer or NEDL, as applicable, will forthwith do all things as may be required to perfect such appointment or removal and it irrevocably appoints the Trustee to be its attorney in its name and on its behalf to do so.
 
18.4   
Competence of a Majority of Trustees
If there are more than two Trustees the majority of such Trustees will (provided such majority includes a trust corporation) be competent to carry out all or any of the Trustee's functions.
 
19.  
COUPONS
 
19.1  
Notices
Neither the Trustee nor the Issuer need give any notice to the Couponholders and the Couponholders will be deemed to have notice of the contents of any notice given to the Bondholders in accordance with the Conditions.
 
19.2  
Bondholders assumed to hold Coupons
Even if it has express notice to the contrary, whenever the Trustee is required to exercise any of its functions by reference to the interests of the Bondholders, the Trustee will assume that each Bondholder is the holder of all Coupons appertaining to each Bond of which he is the bearer. The holders of Coupons shall be bound by and subject to the terms of this Trust Deed to the same extent as if they were Bondholders; provided that no holder of a Coupon shall have any right of action by virtue of this Trust Deed or its holding of such Coupon.
 

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20.  
CONTROLLING PARTY
 
Subject to (i) Ambac being at that time the Controlling Party and (ii) Ambac giving notice to the Trustee that it intends to exercise the Trust Rights, Ambac shall have exclusive control to exercise the Trust Rights or to direct the exercise of the Trust Rights (as applicable) without regard to the interests of any other person, and will not be a fiduciary or owe any fiduciary duties to any person under the Trust Deed and will be exclusively authorised to direct and refrain from directing, the Trustee under this Trust Deed in the exercise of the Trust Rights without regard to the interests of any other person, provided that such power shall not extend to permit Ambac (i) to exercise or direct the exercise of the Excluded Rights, which shall, so long as any of the Bonds remain outstanding, be exercisable by the Trustee in its sole discretion without regard to the provisions of Condition 15 or this Clause 20 , or (ii) to require any modification as is mentioned in the proviso to paragraph 19 of Schedule 5 ( Provisions for Meetings of Bondholders ).
 
21.  
CURRENCY INDEMNITY
 
21.1   
Currency of Account and Payment
Pounds sterling (the " Contractual Currency ") is the sole currency of account and payment for all sums payable by the Issuer under or in connection with this Trust Deed, the Bonds and the Coupons, including damages.
 
21.2  
Extent of discharge
Any amount received or recovered in a currency other than the Contractual Currency (whether as a result of, or of the enforcement of, a judgment or order of a court of any jurisdiction, in the winding-up or dissolution of the Issuer or otherwise), by the Trustee any Bondholder or Couponholder in respect of any sum expressed to be due to it from the Issuer or NEDL will only constitute a discharge to the Issuer or NEDL (as applicable) to the extent of the Contractual Currency amount which the recipient is able to purchase with the amount so received or recovered in that other currency on the date of that receipt or recovery (or, if it is not practicable to make that purchase on that date, on the first date on which it is practicable to do so).
 
21.3   
Indemnities
If that Contractual Currency amount is less than the Contractual Currency amount expressed to be due to the recipient under this Trust Deed, the Bonds or the Coupons, the Issuer and NEDL will jointly and severally indemnify it against any loss sustained by it as a result. In any event, the Issuer will indemnify the recipient against the cost of making any such purchases.
 
21.4   
Indemnities separate
These indemnities constitute a separate and independent obligation from the other obligations in this Trust Deed, will give rise to a separate and independent cause of action, will apply irrespective of any indulgence granted by the Trustee and/or any Bondholder or Couponholder and will continue in full force and effect despite any judgment, order, claim or proof for a liquidated amount in respect of any sum due under this Trust Deed, the Bonds and/or the Coupons or any judgment or order. No proof of evidence of any actual loss may be required.
 

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21.5  
Merger
Any corporation into which the Trustee may be merged or converted or with which it may be consolidated, or any corporation resulting from any merger, conversion or consolidation to which the Trustee shall be a party, or any corporation succeeding to all or substantially all the corporate trust business of the Trustee, shall be the successor of the Trustee hereunder, provided such corporation shall be otherwise qualified and eligible under this Trust Deed, without the execution or filing of any paper or any futher act on the part of any of the parties hereto.
 
22.  
COMMUNICATIONS
 
Any communication shall be by letter or facsimile transmission:
 
22.1.1  
in the case of the Issuer, to it:
 
Lloyds Court
78 Grey Street
Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 6AF
 
Fax no:   + 44 191 223 5142
Attention:   Finance Director
 
22.1.2  
in the case of NEDL, to it at:
 
Lloyds Court
78 Grey Street
Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 6AF
 
Fax no:   + 44 191 223 5142
Attention:   Finance Director
 
22.1.3  
in the case of Ambac, to it at:
 
Hasilwood House
60 Bishopsgate
London EC2N 4BE
 
Fax no.   020 7786 4343
Attention: General Counsel
 
22.1.4  
and in the case of the Trustee, to it at:
 
1 Grenville Street
St Helier
Jersey
JE4 9PF
 
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Fax no.   +44 15 34 606159
Attention:   The Manager, Corporate Services
 
Any such communication will take effect, in the case of delivery, at the time of delivery or, in the case of telex or facsimile transmission, at the time of despatch.
 
Any communication not by letter shall be confirmed by letter but failure to send or receive the letter of confirmation shall not invalidate the original communication.
 
 
23.  
GOVERNING LAW
 
This Trust Deed shall be governed by and construed in accordance with English law.
 
 
24.  
COUNTERPARTS
 
This Trust Deed may be executed in any number of counterparties and by the parties hereto on separate counterparts, each of which shall be an original, but all the counterparts shall together constitute one and the same instrument.
 
IN WITNESS WHEREOF this Trust Deed has been executed as a deed by the parties hereto and is intended to be and is hereby delivered the day and year first before written.
 

38


SCHEDULE 1
Form of Temporary Global Bond
 
ANY UNITED STATES PERSON WHO HOLDS THIS OBLIGATION WILL BE SUBJECT TO LIMITATIONS UNDER THE UNITED STATES INCOME TAX LAWS, INCLUDING THE LIMITATIONS PROVIDED IN SECTIONS 165(j) AND 1287(a) OF THE INTERNAL REVENUE CODE.
 
NORTHERN ELECTRIC FINANCE PLC
(incorporated with limited liability under
the laws of England and Wales with registered number 3070482)
 
£150,000,000
5.125 per cent. Guaranteed Bonds due 2035
 
guaranteed by
 
NORTHERN ELECTRIC DISTRIBUTION LIMITED
(incorporated with limited liability under
the laws of England and Wales with registered number 02906593)
 
TEMPORARY GLOBAL BOND
 
1.  
INTRODUCTION
 
This Temporary Global Bond is issued in respect of the £150,000,000 5.125 per cent. Guaranteed Bonds due 2035 (the " Bonds ") of Northern Electric Finance plc (the " Issuer "). The Bonds are subject to, and have the benefit of, a trust deed dated 5 May 2005 (as amended or supplemented from time to time, the " Trust Deed ") between the Issuer, Northern Electric Distribution Limited (" NEDL "), Ambac Assurance UK Limited (" Ambac ") and HSBC Trustee (C.I.) Limited as trustee (the " Trustee ", which expression includes all persons for the time being appointed trustee or trustees under the Trust Deed) and are the subject of a paying agency agreement dated 5 May 2005 (as amended or supplemented from time to time, the " Agency Agreement ") and made between the Issuer, NEDL, HSBC Bank plc as principal paying agent (the " Principal Paying Agent ", which expression includes any successor principal paying agent appointed from time to time in connection with the Bonds), the other paying agent named therein (together with the Principal Paying Agent, the " Paying Agents ", which expression includes any successor or additional paying agents appointed from time to time in connection with the Bonds) and the Trustee.
 
2.  
REFERENCES TO CONDITIONS
 
Any reference herein to the " Conditions " is to the terms and conditions of the Bonds set out in Schedule 4 ( Terms and Conditions of the Bonds ) of the Trust Deed and any reference to a numbered " Condition " is to the correspondingly numbered provision thereof. Words and expressions defined in the Conditions shall have the same meanings when used in this Temporary Global Bond.
 

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3.  
PROMISE TO PAY
 
The Issuer, for value received, promises to pay to the bearer of this Temporary Global Bond the principal sum of
 

£150,000,000
(One Hundred and Fifty Million Pounds Sterling)
 
on 4 May 2035 or on such earlier date or dates as the same may become payable in accordance with the Conditions, and to pay interest on such principal sum in arrear on the dates and at the rate specified in the Conditions, together with any additional amounts payable in accordance with the Conditions, all subject to and in accordance with the Conditions; provided, however, that such interest shall be payable only:
 
3.1  
in the case of interest falling due before the Exchange Date (as defined below), to the extent that a certificate or certificates issued by Euroclear Bank S.A./N.V. as operator of the Euroclear System (" Euroclear ") and/or Clearstream Banking, société anonyme , Luxembourg (" Clearstream, Luxembourg ") dated not earlier than the date on which such interest falls due and in substantially the form set out in Schedule 3 ( Form of Euroclear/Clearstream, Luxembourg Certification ) hereto is/are delivered to the Specified Office (as defined in the Conditions) of the Principal Paying Agent; or
 
3.2  
in the case of interest falling due at any time, to the extent that the Issuer has failed to procure the exchange for a permanent global bond of that portion of this Temporary Global Bond in respect of which such interest has accrued.
 
4.  
NEGOTIABILITY
 
This Temporary Global Bond is negotiable and, accordingly, title to this Temporary Global Bond shall pass by delivery.
 
5.  
EXCHANGE
 
On or after the day following the expiry of 40 days after the date of issue of this Temporary Global Bond (the " Exchange Date "), the Issuer shall procure (in the case of first exchange) the delivery of a permanent global bond (the " Permanent Global Bond ") in substantially the form set out in Schedule 2 ( Form of Permanent Global Bond ) to the Trust Deed to the bearer of this Temporary Global Bond or (in the case of any subsequent exchange) an increase in the principal amount of the Permanent Global Bond in accordance with its terms against:
 
5.1  
presentation and (in the case of final exchange) surrender of this Temporary Global Bond at the specified office of the Principal Paying Agent; and
 
5.2  
receipt by the Principal Paying Agent of a certificate or certificates issued by Euroclear and/or Clearstream, Luxembourg dated not earlier than the Exchange Date and in substantially the form set out in Schedule 3 ( Form of Euroclear/Clearstream, Luxembourg Certification ) hereto.
 

40

 
The principal amount of the Permanent Global Bond shall be equal to the aggregate of the principal amounts specified in the certificates issued by Euroclear and/or Clearstream, Luxembourg and received by the Principal Paying Agent; provided, however,   that in no circumstances shall the principal amount of the Permanent Global Bond exceed the initial principal amount of this Temporary Global Bond.
 
6.  
WRITING DOWN
 
On each occasion on which:
 
6.1  
the Permanent Global Bond is delivered or the principal amount thereof is increased in accordance with its terms in exchange for a further portion of this Temporary Global Bond; or
 
6.2  
Bonds represented by this Temporary Global Bond are to be cancelled in accordance with Condition 7(e) ( Redemption and Purchase - Cancellation ),
 
the Issuer shall procure that (a) the principal amount of the Permanent Global Bond, the principal amount of such increase or (as the case may be) the aggregate principal amount of such Bonds and (b) the remaining principal amount of this Temporary Global Bond (which shall be the previous principal amount hereof less the aggregate of the amounts referred to in (a)) are noted in Schedule 1 ( Payments, Exchange and Cancellation of Bonds ) hereto, whereupon the principal amount of this Temporary Global Bond shall for all purposes be as most recently so noted.
 
7.  
PAYMENTS
 
All payments in respect of this Temporary Global Bond shall be made against presentation and (in the case of payment of principal in full with all interest accrued thereon) surrender of this Temporary Global Bond at the Specified Office of any Paying Agent and shall be effective to satisfy and discharge the corresponding liabilities of the Issuer in respect of the Bonds. On each occasion on which a payment of interest is made in respect of this Temporary Global Bond, the Issuer shall procure that the same is noted in Schedule 1 ( Payments, Exchange and Cancellation of Bonds ) hereto.
 
8.  
CONDITIONS APPLY
 
Until this Temporary Global Bond has been exchanged as provided herein or cancelled in accordance with the Paying Agency Agreement, the bearer of this Temporary Global Bond shall be subject to the Conditions and, subject as otherwise provided herein, shall be entitled to the same rights and benefits under the Conditions as if the bearer were the holder of Bonds in definitive form in substantially the form set out in Schedule 3 ( Form of Definitive Bond ) to the Trust Deed and the related interest coupons and talons for further interest coupons in the denominations of £50,000 and £100,000 and in an aggregate principal amount equal to the principal amount of this Global Bond.
 

41

 
9.  
NOTICES
 
Notwithstanding Condition 17 ( Notices ), while all the Bonds are represented by this Temporary Global Bond (or by this Temporary Global Bond and the Permanent Global Bond) and this Temporary Global Bond is (or this Temporary Global Bond and the Permanent Global Bond are) deposited with a common depositary for Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg, notices to Bondholders may be given by delivery of the relevant notice to Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg and, in any case, such notices shall be deemed to have been given to the Bondholders in accordance with the Condition 17 ( Notices ) on the date of delivery to Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg.
 
10.  
AUTHENTICATION
 
This Temporary Global Bond shall not be valid for any purpose until it has been authenticated for and on behalf of HSBC Bank plc as principal paying agent.
 
11.  
GOVERNING LAW
 
This Temporary Global Bond and all matters arising from or connected with it are governed by, and shall be construed in accordance with, English law.
 
AS WITNESS the manual signature of a duly authorised person on behalf of the Issuer.
 
NORTHERN ELECTRIC FINANCE PLC
 
By:   ..............................
( duly authorised )
 

ISSUED on 5 May 2005
AUTHENTICATED for and on behalf of
HSBC Bank plc
as principal paying agent
without recourse, warranty or liability
 
By:   ..............................
( duly authorised )
 

42


SCHEDULE 1
PAYMENTS, EXCHANGE AND CANCELLATION OF BONDS
 
Date of payment, delivery or cancellation
 
Amount of interest then paid
 
Principal amount of Permanent Global Bond then delivered or by which Permanent Global Bond then increased
Aggregate principal amount of Bonds then cancelled
 
Remaining principal amount of this Temporary Global Bond
 
Authorised Signature
 
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           

 

43


SCHEDULE 2
FORM OF ACCOUNTHOLDER'S CERTIFICATION
 
NORTHERN ELECTRIC FINANCE PLC
(incorporated with limited liability under
the laws of England and Wales with registered number 3070482)
 
£150,000,000
5.125 per cent. Guaranteed Bonds due 2035
guaranteed by
 
NORTHERN ELECTRIC DISTRIBUTION LIMITED
 
(incorporated with limited liability under
the laws of England and Wales with registered number 02906593)
 
This is to certify that as of the date hereof, and except as set forth below, the above-captioned Securities held by you for our account (a) are owned by persons that are not citizens or residents of the United States, domestic partnerships, domestic corporations or any estate or trust the income of which is subject to United States Federal income taxation regardless of its source (" United States persons "), (b) are owned by United States person(s) that (i) are foreign branches of a United States financial institution (as defined in U.S. Treasury Regulations Section 1.165-12(c)(1)(iv)) (" financial institutions ") purchasing for their own account or for resale, or (ii) acquired the Securities through foreign branches of United States financial institutions and who hold the Securities through such United States financial institutions on the date hereof (and in either case (i) or (ii), each such United States financial institution hereby agrees, on its own behalf or through its agent, that you may advise the issuer or the issuer's agent that it will comply with the requirements of Section 165(j)(3)(A), (B) or (C) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and the regulations thereunder), or (c) are owned by United States or foreign financial institution(s) for purposes of resale during the restricted period (as defined in U.S. Treasury Regulations Section 1.163-5(c)(2)(i)(D)(7)), and in addition if the owner of the Securities is a United States or foreign financial institution described in clause (c) (whether or not also described in clause (a) or (b)) this is to further certify that such financial institution has not acquired the Securities for purposes of resale directly or indirectly to a United States person or to a person within the United States or its possessions.
 
If the Securities are of the category contemplated in Section 230.903(b)(3) of Regulation S under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the " Act "), then this is also to certify that, except as set forth below, the Securities are beneficially owned by (1) non-U.S. person(s) or (2) U.S. person(s) who purchased the Securities in transactions which did not require registration under the Act. As used in this paragraph the term " U.S. person " has the meaning given to it by Regulation S under the Act.
 
As used herein, " United States " means the United States of America (including the States and the District of Columbia); and its " possessions " include Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, Wake Island and the Northern Mariana Islands.
 

44


We undertake to advise you promptly by tested telex on or prior to the date on which you intend to submit your certification relating to the Securities held by you for our account in accordance with your operating procedures if any applicable statement herein is not correct on such date, and in the absence of any such notification it may be assumed that this certification applies as of such date.
 
This certification excepts and does not relate to £[ ] of such interest in the above Securities in respect of which we are not able to certify and as to which we understand exchange and delivery of definitive Securities (or, if relevant, exercise of any rights or collection of any interest) cannot be made until we do so certify.
 
We understand that this certification is required in connection with certain tax laws and, if applicable, certain securities laws of the United States. In connection therewith, if administrative or legal proceedings are commenced or threatened in connection with which this certification is or would be relevant, we irrevocably authorise you to produce this certification to any interested party in such proceedings.
 
Dated:
[                            ]
 

 
[name of account holder]
as, or as agent for,
the beneficial owner(s) of the Securities
to which this certificate relates.
 
By:
....................................
( Authorised signatory)
 

45


SCHEDULE 3
FORM OF EUROCLEAR/CLEARSTREAM, LUXEMBOURG CERTIFICATION
 
NORTHERN ELECTRIC FINANCE PLC
(incorporated with limited liability under
the laws of England and Wales with registered number 3070482)
 
£150,000,000
5.125 per cent. Guaranteed Bonds due 2035
 
guaranteed by
 
NORTHERN ELECTRIC DISTRIBUTION LIMITED
(incorporated with limited liability under
the laws of England and Wales with registered number 02906593)
 
This is to certify that, based solely on certifications we have received in writing, by tested telex or by electronic transmission from member organisations appearing in our records as persons being entitled to a portion of the principal amount set forth below (our " Member Organisations ") substantially to the effect set forth in the temporary global bond issued in respect of the securities, as of the date hereof, £[ ] principal amount of the above-captioned Securities (a) is owned by persons that are not citizens or residents of the United States, domestic partnerships, domestic corporations or any estate or trust the income of which is subject to United States Federal income taxation regardless of its source (" United States persons "), (b) is owned by United States persons that (i) are foreign branches of United States financial institutions (as defined in U.S. Treasury Regulations Section 1.165-12(c)(1)(iv)) (" financial institutions ") purchasing for their own account or for resale, or (ii) acquired the Securities through foreign branches of United States financial institutions and who hold the Securities through such United States financial institutions on the date hereof (and in either case (i) or (ii), each such United States financial institution has agreed, on its own behalf or through its agent, that we may advise the Issuer or the Issuer's agent that it will comply with the requirements of Section 165(j)(3)(A), (B) or (C) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and the regulations thereunder), or (c) is owned by United States or foreign financial institutions for purposes of resale during the restricted period (as defined in U.S. Treasury Regulations Section 1.163-5(c)(2)(i)(D)(7)), and to the further effect that United States or foreign financial institutions described in clause (c) (whether or not also described in clause (a) or (b)) have certified that they have not acquired the Securities for purposes of resale directly or indirectly to a United States person or to a person within the United States or its possessions.
 
If the Securities are of the category contemplated in Section 230.903(b)(3) of Regulation S under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the " Act "), then this is also to certify with respect to the principal amount of Securities set forth above that, except as set forth below, we have received in writing, by tested telex or by electronic transmission, from our Member Organisations entitled to a portion of such principal amount, certifications with respect to such portion substantially to the effect set forth in the temporary global bond issued in respect of the Securities.
 

46

 
We further certify (1) that we are not making available herewith for exchange (or, if relevant, exercise of any rights or collection of any interest) any portion of the temporary global security excepted in such certifications and (2) that as of the date hereof we have not received any notification from any of our Member Organisations to the effect that the statements made by such Member Organisations with respect to any portion of the part submitted herewith for exchange (or, if relevant, exercise of any rights or collection of any interest) are no longer true and cannot be relied upon as of the date hereof.
 
We understand that this certification is required in connection with certain tax laws and, if applicable, certain securities laws of the United States. In connection therewith, if administrative or legal proceedings are commenced or threatened in connection with which this certification is or would be relevant, we irrevocably authorise you to produce this certification to any interested party in such proceedings.
 
Dated:
[                                    ]
 
Euroclear Bank S.A./N.V.
as operator of the Euroclear System

 
or
 
Clearstream Banking, société anonyme , Luxembourg
 
By:
....................................
( Authorised signatory )
 

47


SCHEDULE 2
Form of Permanent Global Bond
 
ANY UNITED STATES PERSON WHO HOLDS THIS OBLIGATION WILL BE SUBJECT TO LIMITATIONS UNDER THE UNITED STATES INCOME TAX LAWS, INCLUDING THE LIMITATIONS PROVIDED IN SECTIONS 165(j) AND 1287(a) OF THE INTERNAL REVENUE CODE.
 
NORTHERN ELECTRIC FINANCE PLC
(incorporated with limited liability under
the laws of England and Wales with registered number 3070482)
 
£150,000,000
5.125 per cent. Guaranteed Bonds due 2035
 
guaranteed by
 
NORTHERN ELECTRIC DISTRIBUTION LIMITED
(incorporated with limited liability under
the laws of England and Wales with registered number 02906593)
 
PERMANENT GLOBAL BOND
 

 
1.  
INTRODUCTION
 
This Permanent Global Bond is issued in respect of the £150,000,000 5.125 per cent. Guaranteed Bonds due 2035 (the " Bonds ") of Northern Electric Finance plc (the " Issuer "). The Bonds are subject to, and have the benefit of, a trust deed dated 5 May 2005 (as amended or supplemented from time to time, the " Trust Deed ") between the Issuer, Northern Electric Distribution Limited (the " NEDL "), Ambac Assurance UK Limited (" Ambac ") and HSBC Trustee (C.I.) Limited as trustee (the " Trustee ", which expression includes all persons for the time being appointed trustee or trustees under the Trust Deed) and are the subject of a paying agency agreement dated 5 May 2005 (as amended or supplemented from time to time, the " Agency Agreement ") and made between the Issuer, NEDL, HSBC Bank plc as principal paying agent (the " Principal Paying Agent ", which expression includes any successor principal paying agent appointed from time to time in connection with the Bonds), the other paying agent named therein (together with the Principal Paying Agent, the " Paying Agents ", which expression includes any successor or additional paying agents appointed from time to time in connection with the Bonds) and the Trustee.
 
2.  
REFERENCES TO CONDITIONS
 
Any reference herein to the " Conditions " is to the terms and conditions of the Bonds set out in Schedule 2 ( Terms and Conditions of the Notes ) hereto and any reference to a numbered " Condition " is to the correspondingly numbered provision thereof. Words and expressions defined in the Conditions shall have the same meanings when used in this Global Bond.
 

48

 
3.  
PROMISE TO PAY
 
The Issuer, for value received, promises to pay to the bearer of this Global Bond, in respect of each Bond represented by this Global Bond, its principal amount on 4 May 2035 or on such earlier date or dates as the same may become payable in accordance with the Conditions, and to pay interest on each such Bond on the dates and in the manner specified in the Conditions, together with any additional amounts payable in accordance with the Conditions, all subject to and in accordance with the Conditions. The Issuer shall procure that the initial aggregate principal amount of Bonds represented by this Global Bond is noted in Schedule 1 ( Payments, Exchanges against Temporary Global Bond, Delivery of Definitive Notes and Cancellation of Notes ) hereto, whereupon the principal amount of this Global Bond shall for all purposes be such amount, subject as provided in paragraph 7 ( Writing Down ) and paragraph 8 ( Writing Up ) below.
 
4.  
NEGOTIABILITY
 
This Global Bond is negotiable and, accordingly, title to this Global Bond shall pass by delivery.
 
5.  
EXCHANGE
 
5.1.1  
This Global Bond will be exchanged, in whole but not in part only, for Bonds in definitive form ("Definitive Notes") in substantially the form set out in Schedule 3 ( Form of Definitive Bond ) to the Trust Deed if any of the events specified in Clause 3.3 ( Exchange for Definitive Bonds ) of the Trust Deed occurs.
 
6.  
DELIVERY OF DEFINITIVE NOTES
 
Whenever this Global Bond is to be exchanged for Definitive Bonds, the Issuer shall procure the prompt delivery of such Definitive Bonds, duly authenticated and with interest coupons (" Coupons ") and talons for further Coupons (" Talons ") attached, in an aggregate principal amount equal to the principal amount of this Global Bond to the bearer of this Global Bond against the surrender of this Global Bond at the Specified Office (as defined in the Conditions) of the Principal Paying Agent within 30 days of the occurrence of the relevant Exchange Event.
 
7.  
WRITING DOWN
 
On each occasion on which:
 
7.1  
a payment of principal is made in respect of this Global Bond;
 
7.2  
Definitive Bonds are delivered; or

 
49

 
7.3  
Bonds represented by this Global Bond are to be cancelled in accordance with Condition 7(e) ( Redemption and Purchase - Cancellation ),
 
the Issuer shall procure that (i) the amount of such payment and the aggregate principal amount of such Bonds and (ii) the remaining principal amount of this Global Bond (which shall be the previous principal amount hereof less the aggregate of the amounts referred to in (i) above) are noted in Schedule 1 ( Payments, Exchanges against Temporary Global Bond, Delivery of Definitive Notes and Cancellation of Notes ) hereto, whereupon the principal amount of this Global Bond shall for all purposes be as most recently so noted.
 
8.  
WRITING UP
 
If this Global Bond was originally issued in exchange for part only of a temporary global bond representing the Bonds, then all references in this Global Bond to its principal amount shall be construed as references to the principal amount of the part of the temporary global bond in exchange for which this Global Bond was originally issued which the Issuer shall procure is noted in Schedule 1 ( Payments, Exchanges against Temporary Global Bond, Delivery of Definitive Notes and Cancellation of Notes ) hereto. If at any subsequent time any further portion of such temporary global bond is exchanged for an interest in this Global Bond, the principal amount of this Global Bond shall be increased by the amount of such further portion, and the Issuer shall procure that the principal amount of this Global Bond (which shall be the previous principal amount hereof plus the amount of such further portion) is noted in Schedule 1 ( Payments, Exchanges against Temporary Global Bond, Delivery of Definitive Notes and Cancellation of Notes ) hereto, whereupon the principal amount of this Global Bond shall for all purposes be as most recently so noted.
 
9.  
PAYMENTS
 
All payments in respect of this Global Bond shall be made against presentation and (in the case of payment of principal in full with all interest accrued thereon) surrender of this Global Bond at the specified office of any Paying Agent and shall be effective to satisfy and discharge the corresponding liabilities of the Issuer in respect of the Bonds. On each occasion on which a payment of interest is made in respect of this Global Bond, the Issuer shall procure that the same is noted in Schedule 1 ( Payments, Exchanges against Temporary Global Bond, Delivery of Definitive Notes and Cancellation of Notes ) hereto.
 
10.   
CONDITIONS APPLY
 
Until this Global Bond has been exchanged as provided herein or cancelled in accordance with the Paying Agency Agreement, the bearer of this Global Bond shall be subject to the Conditions and, subject as otherwise provided herein, shall be entitled to the same rights and benefits under the Conditions as if it were the holder of Definitive Bonds and the related, Talons and Coupons in the denominations of £50,000 and £100,000 and in an aggregate principal amount equal to the principal amount of this Global Bond.
 
 
50

 
11.   
EXERCISE OF PUT OPTION
 
In order to exercise the option contained in Condition 13 ( Restructuring Event ) (the " Put Option "), the bearer of this Global Bond must, within the period specified in the Conditions for the deposit of the relevant Bond and Put Event Notice (as defined in Condition 13), give written notice of such exercise to the Principal Paying Agent specifying the principal amount of Bonds in respect of which the Put Option is being exercised. Any such notice shall be irrevocable and may not be withdrawn.
 
12.  
EXERCISE OF CALL OPTION
 
In connection with an exercise of the option contained in Condition 7(b) ( Redemption at the option of the Issuer ) in relation to some only of the Bonds, this Global Bond may be redeemed in part in the principal amount specified by the Issuer in accordance with the Conditions and the Bonds to be redeemed will be selected as provided in the Conditions.
 
13.   
NOTICES
 
Notwithstanding Condition 17 ( Notices ), while all the Bonds are represented by this Global Bond (or by this Global Bond and a temporary global bond) and this Global Bond is (or this Global Bond and a temporary global bond are) deposited with a common depositary for Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg, notices to Bondholders may be given by delivery of the relevant notice to Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg and, in any case, such notices shall be deemed to have been given to the Bondholders in accordance with the Condition 17 ( Notices ) on the date of delivery to Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg.
 
14.   
AUTHENTICATION
 
This Global Bond shall not be valid for any purpose until it has been authenticated for and on behalf of   HSBC Bank plc as principal paying agent.
 
15.   
GOVERNING LAW
 
This Global Bond and all matters arising from or connected with it are governed by, and shall be construed in accordance with, English law.
 
51

 
AS WITNESS the manual signature of a duly authorised person on behalf of the Issuer.
 
NORTHERN ELECTRIC FINANCE PLC
 
By:   ..............................
(duly authorised)
 

 
 
ISSUED as of 5 May 2005
 
AUTHENTICATED for and on behalf of
HSBC Bank plc
as principal paying agent
without recourse, warranty or liability
 

 
By:   ..............................
(duly authorised)
 

52


SCHEDULE 1
Payments, Exchanges against Temporary Global Bond, Delivery of Definitive Notes and Cancellation of Notes
 

 
Date of payment, exchange, delivery or cancellation
 
Amount of interest then paid
 
Principal amount of Temporary Global Bond then exchanged
 
Aggregate principal amount of Definitive Notes then delivered
 
Aggregate principal amount of Notes then cancelled
 
New principal amount of this Global Bond
 
Authorised signature
 
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             

 

53


SCHEDULE 2
Terms and Conditions of the Notes
 

54


SCHEDULE 3
Form of Definitive Bond
 
[On the face of the Note:]
 

 
[ currency ][ denomination ]
 
ANY UNITED STATES PERSON WHO HOLDS THIS OBLIGATION WILL BE SUBJECT TO LIMITATIONS UNDER THE UNITED STATES INCOME TAX LAWS, INCLUDING THE LIMITATIONS PROVIDED IN SECTIONS 165(j) AND 1287(a) OF THE INTERNAL REVENUE CODE.
 
NORTHERN ELECTRIC FINANCE PLC
(incorporated with limited liability under
the laws of England and Wales with registered number 3070482)
 
£150,000,000
5.125 per cent. Guaranteed Bonds due 2035
 
guaranteed by
 
NORTHERN ELECTRIC DISTRIBUTION LIMITED
(incorporated with limited liability under
the laws of England and Wales with registered number 02906593)
 
The Issuer, for value received, promises to pay to the bearer the principal sum of
 
£[50,000][100,000]
 
([FIFTY]/[ONE HUNDRED] THOUSAND POUNDS)
 
on 4 May 2035, or on such earlier date or dates as the same may become payable in accordance with the conditions endorsed hereon (the " Conditions "), and to pay interest on such principal sum in arrear on the dates and at the rate specified in the Conditions, together with any additional amounts payable in accordance with the Conditions, all subject to and in accordance with the Conditions.
 
Interest is payable on the above principal sum at the rate of 5.125 per cent. per annum, payable annually in arrear on 4 May in each year, all subject to and in accordance with the Conditions.
 
This Bond and the interest coupons and talons relating hereto shall not be valid for any purpose until this Bond has been authenticated for and on behalf of HSBC Bank plc as principal paying agent.
 
AS WITNESS the facsimile signature of a duly authorised person on behalf of the Issuer.
 
55

 
NORTHERN ELECTRIC FINANCE PLC
 
By:   ..............................
 
[facsimile signature]
(duly authorised)

 
ISSUED as of 5 May 2005
 
AUTHENTICATED for and on behalf of
HSBC Bank plc
as principal paying agent
without recourse, warranty or liability
By:   ..............................
 
[ manual signature ]
(duly authorised)


56


[On the reverse of the Note:]
 

 
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
 
[As set out in Schedule 4 ( Terms and Conditions of the Bonds ) of the Trust Deed]
 

 
[At the foot of the Terms and Conditions:]
 

 
PRINCIPAL PAYING AGENT
 
HSBC Bank plc
Level 24
8 Canada Square
London E14 5HQ


 

 
PAYING AGENT
 
Dexia Banque Internationale à Luxembourg société anonyme
69, route d'Esch
L-2953 Luxembourg
 

 

57


Form of Coupon
 
[On the face of the Coupon:]
 
NORTHERN ELECTRIC FINANCE PLC
£150,000,000 5.125 per cent. Guaranteed Bonds due 2035

 
Coupon for £[ amount of interest payment ] due on 4 May [ year ]
 
Such amount is payable, subject to the terms and conditions (the " Conditions ") endorsed on the Bond to which this Coupon relates (which are binding on the holder of this Coupon whether or not it is for the time being attached to such Bond), against presentation and surrender of this Coupon at the specified office for the time being of any of the agents shown on the reverse of this Coupon (or any successor or additional agents appointed from time to time in accordance with the Conditions).
 
ANY UNITED STATES PERSON WHO HOLDS THIS OBLIGATION WILL BE SUBJECT TO LIMITATIONS UNDER THE UNITED STATES INCOME TAX LAWS, INCLUDING THE LIMITATIONS PROVIDED IN SECTIONS 165(j) AND 1287(a) OF THE INTERNAL REVENUE CODE.
 

 
[On the reverse of the Coupon:]
 

 
Principal Paying Agent: HSBC Bank plc, Level 24, 8 Canada Square, London E14 5HQ
 
Paying Agents: Dexia Banque Internationale à Luxembourg société anonyme, 69, route d'Esch, L-2953 Luxembourg
 

58


Form of Talon
 
[On the face of the Talon:]
 
NORTHERN ELECTRIC FINANCE PLC
£150,000,000 5.125 per cent. Guaranteed Bonds due 2035

 
Talon for further Coupons.
 
On or after the maturity date of the final Coupon which is (or was at the time of issue) part of the Coupon Sheet to which this Talon is (or was at the time of issue) attached, this Talon may be exchanged at the specified office for the time being of the principal paying agent shown on the reverse of this Talon (or any successor principal paying agent appointed from time to time in accordance with the terms and conditions (the " Conditions ") of the Bonds to which this Talon relates) for a further Coupon Sheet (including a further Talon but excluding any Coupons in respect of which claims have already become void pursuant to the Conditions).
 
The Bond to which this Talon relates may, in certain circumstances specified in the Conditions, fall due for redemption before the maturity date of such final Coupon. In such event, this Talon shall become void and no Coupon will be delivered in respect hereof.
 
ANY UNITED STATES PERSON WHO HOLDS THIS OBLIGATION WILL BE SUBJECT TO LIMITATIONS UNDER THE UNITED STATES INCOME TAX LAWS, INCLUDING THE LIMITATIONS PROVIDED IN SECTIONS 165(j) AND 1287(a) OF THE INTERNAL REVENUE CODE.]
 

 
[On the reverse of the Talon:]
 
Principal Paying Agent: HSBC Bank plc, Level 24, 8 Canada Square, London E14 5HQ
 
Paying Agents: Dexia Banque Internationale à Luxembourg société anonyme, 69, route d'Esch, L-2953 Luxembourg
 

59


SCHEDULE 4
Terms and Conditions of the Bonds
 
The £150,000,000 5.125 per cent. Guaranteed Bonds due 2035 (the " Bonds ", which expression shall, unless the context otherwise requires, include any Further Bonds (as defined in Condition 3 ( Definitions )) of Northern Electric Finance plc (the " Issuer ") are constituted by and subject to a trust deed dated 5 May 2005 (as the same may be amended and/or supplemented from time to time, the " Trust Deed ") between the Issuer, Northern Electric Distribution Limited (" NEDL ") in its capacity as guarantor of the Bonds, Ambac Assurance UK Limited (" Ambac ") and HSBC Trustee (C.I.) Limited (the " Trustee ", which expression shall, wherever the context so admits, include its successors as trustee under the Trust Deed) as trustee for the holders of the Bonds (the " Bondholders "). The Bonds are also unconditionally and irrevocably guaranteed as to scheduled payments of principal and interest and in respect of certain additional amounts in respect of United Kingdom withholding taxes pursuant to a financial guarantee dated 5 May 2005 (the " Financial Guarantee ") issued by Ambac to the Trustee. The statements in these Terms and Conditions include summaries of and are subject to, the detailed provisions of the Trust Deed. Copies of the Trust Deed and the Paying Agency Agreement dated 5 May 2005 (the " Paying Agency Agreement ") between the Issuer, NEDL, Ambac, the Paying Agents referred to below and the Trustee will be available for inspection by Bondholders and the holders of the interest coupons appertaining to the Bonds (respectively, the " Couponholders " and the " Coupons ") at the registered office for the time being of the Trustee, being as of the date hereof at 1 Grenville Street, St. Helier, Jersey, JE4 9PF and at the specified office(s) of each of the Paying Agents. The Bondholders and the Couponholders are entitled to the benefit of, are bound by, and are deemed to have notice of, all the provisions of the Trust Deed and the provisions of the Paying Agency Agreement applicable to them.
 
1.    Form, Denomination and Title
 
The Bonds are serially numbered and in bearer form in the denominations of £50,000 and £100,000 each with Coupons and talons (each, a " Talon ") for further Coupons attached on issue, and title thereto and to the Coupons and Talons will pass by delivery. Bonds of one denomination may not be exchanged for Bonds of the other denomination. The holder of any Bond, Coupon or Talon will (except as otherwise required by law) be treated as its absolute owner for all purposes (whether or not it is overdue and regardless of any notice of ownership, trust, or any interest in it, any writing on it, or its theft or loss) and no person will be liable for so treating the holder. No person shall have any right to enforce any term or condition of the Bonds or the Trust Deed under the Contracts (Rights of Third Parties) Act 1999.
 
 
60

 
2.       Status, Guarantee and Financial Guarantee
 
(a)       Status of the Bonds
 
The Bonds and Coupons constitute direct, unconditional and (subject to the provisions of Condition 4 ( Negative Pledge )) unsecured obligations of the Issuer and rank pari passu and without any preference among themselves. The payment obligations of the Issuer under the Bonds and the Coupons shall, subject as aforesaid and save for such obligations as may be preferred by laws that are mandatory or of general application, at all times rank at least equally with all its present and future unsecured and unsubordinated obligations.
 
(b)       Guarantee of the Bonds
 
NEDL has in the Trust Deed unconditionally and irrevocably guaranteed the due and punctual payment of all sums from time to time payable by the Issuer in respect of the Bonds. This guarantee (the " Guarantee of the Bonds ") constitutes a direct, unconditional and (subject to the provisions of Condition 4 ( Negative Pledge )) unsecured obligation of NEDL. The payment obligations of NEDL under the Guarantee of the Bonds shall, subject as aforesaid and save for such obligations as may be preferred by laws that are mandatory or of general application, at all times rank at least equally with all its present and future unsecured and unsubordinated obligations.
 
 
(c)
Financial Guarantee
 
The Bonds also have the benefit of the Financial Guarantee which has been issued by Ambac pursuant to a reimbursement and indemnity agreement to be dated on or about the Issue Date (as defined below) between the Issuer, NEDL and Ambac (the " Reimbursement and Indemnity Agreement "). Pursuant to the Financial Guarantee, Ambac has unconditionally and irrevocably agreed to pay to the Trustee all sums due and payable but unpaid by the Issuer or, as the case may be, NEDL in respect of Scheduled Principal and Scheduled Interest (each as defined in these Conditions) (but excluding Default Interest (as defined in Condition 5 ( Interest ))) on the Bonds, all as more particularly described in the Financial Guarantee.
 
The terms of the Financial Guarantee provide that amounts of principal of any Bonds which have become immediately due and payable (whether by virtue of acceleration, prepayment or otherwise) other than on the final maturity date will not be treated as Guaranteed Amounts (as defined in Condition 3 ( Definitions )) which are Due for Payment (as defined in Condition 3 ( Definitions )) unless Ambac in its sole discretion elects to do so by notice in writing to the Issuer and the Trustee. If no such election is made, Ambac will continue to be liable to make payments in respect of the Bonds pursuant to the Financial Guarantee on the dates on which such payments would have been required to be made if such amounts had not become immediately due and payable.
 
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To the extent that the Redemption Price (as defined in Condition 7 ( Redemption and Purchase )) payable on any early redemption of the Bonds exceeds the outstanding principal amount of any Bonds to be redeemed, payment of the excess is not guaranteed by Ambac under the Financial Guarantee.
 
 
(d)
Status of Financial Guarantee
 
The Financial Guarantee provided by Ambac constitutes a direct, unsecured obligation of Ambac which will rank at least pari passu with all other unsecured obligations of Ambac, save for such obligations as may be preferred by provisions of law that are both mandatory and of general application.
 
 
(e)
Subrogation of Ambac
 
The Trust Deed and the Financial Guarantee provide that Ambac shall be subrogated to any rights of the Bondholders and/or the Couponholders (as applicable) against the Issuer or, as applicable, NEDL in respect of amounts due under the Bonds or the Guarantee of the Bonds which have been paid by Ambac under the Financial Guarantee.
 
3.      Definitions
 
" Ambac Event of Default " means any of the events set out in Condition 12 ( Ambac Events of Default ).
 
" Auditors " means the auditors for the time being of the Issuer or, as applicable, NEDL or, in the event of their being unable or unwilling to carry out any action requested of them pursuant to the terms of the Trust Deed, such other firm of internationally recognised chartered accountants as the Issuer or, as applicable, NEDL may select for the purpose.
 
" Business Day " means any day (other than a Saturday or Sunday) on which banks and other financial institutions are open for business in London.
 
" Calculation Date " means each of 30 June and 31 December in any year save that the first Calculation Date shall be 31 December 2005.
 
" Capital Investment " means expenditure of a capital nature.
 
" Capitalised Lease Obligations " means all lease obligations of the Issuer, NEDL and their respective Subsidiaries which, under UK GAAP, are or will be required to be capitalised, in each case taken at the amount thereof accounted for as indebtedness in conformity with such principles.
 
" Cash Equivalents " means investments in sterling demand or time deposits, certificates of deposit and short term debt obligations (including commercial paper), synthetic sterling deposits, shares in money market liquidity funds or a guaranteed investment contract, provided that in all cases such investments have a maturity of not longer than nine months from the date of their acquisition subject to meeting the following credit criteria: (1) money market funds with a minimum credit rating of AAA or equivalent from any two Rating Agencies (or, in the case of shares in money market liquidity funds, from any single Rating Agency); (2) all other counterparties and other specific instruments with a minimum short term credit rating of A-1 from S&P or of P-1 from Moody's.
 
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" Companies Act " means the Companies Act 1985 as amended or re-enacted from time to time and all subordinate legislation made pursuant thereto.
 
" Controlling Party " at any time means Ambac unless an Ambac Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, in which event, " Controlling Party " shall mean the Trustee.
 
" Currency or Interest Rate Agreement " means an agreement or transaction involving any currency or interest rate swap, cap or collar arrangement, forward exchange transaction, option, warrant, forward rate agreement, futures contract or other derivative instrument of any kind for the hedging or management of foreign exchange or interest rate risks.
 
" Distribution " means any dividend, distribution or payment (including by way of redemption, repurchase, retirement, return or repayment) in respect of the share capital of NEDL.
 
" Due for Payment " means, in relation to principal or interest, that the Scheduled Payment Date for such amount has been reached. For the avoidance of doubt, " Due for Payment " does not refer to any earlier date upon which payment of any principal or interest may become due under the Bonds by reason of prepayment, acceleration of maturity or otherwise.
 
" EBIT " means, for the Relevant Period, the aggregate profits of NEDL and the Issuer for that Relevant Period shown in the financial statements of NEDL and the Issuer on the line entitled "profits on ordinary activities before interest":
 
 
(i)
before taking into account any items treated as exceptional items;
 
 
(ii)
after deducting the amount of any profit of any member of the Group which is attributable to minority interests;
 
 
(iii)
after deducting the amount of any profit of any investment or entity (which is not itself a member of the Group) in which any member of the Group has an ownership interest to the extent that the amount of such profit included in the financial statements of NEDL and the Issuer exceeds the amount (net of applicable withholding tax) received in cash by members of the Group through distributions by such investment or entity;
 
 
(iv)
before taking into account any realised and unrealised exchange gains and losses including those arising on translation of currency debt;
 
 
(v)
before taking into account any gain or loss arising from an upward or downward revaluation of any asset,
 
in each case, to the extent added, deducted or taken into account, as the case may be, for the purposes of determining the aggregate profits of NEDL and the Issuer from ordinary activities before taxation (and without double counting).
 
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" Electricity Act " means the Electricity Act 1989 as amended or re-enacted from time to time and all subordinate legislation made pursuant thereto.
 
" Electricity Distribution Licence " means the electricity distribution licence granted or treated as granted to NEDL under section 6(1)(c) of the Electricity Act.
 
" Energy Act " means the Energy Act 2004 as amended or re-enacted from time to time and all subordinate legislation made pursuant thereto.
 
" Energy Administrator " means a special energy administrator appointed pursuant to Part 3 of the Energy Act.
 
" Exchange Act " means the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
 
" Existing Negative Pledge " means the obligations contained in each of (i) Condition 3 of the terms and conditions of Northern Electric Finance plc's £100,000,000 8.875 per cent. Guaranteed Bonds due 2020 and (ii) Condition 3 of the terms and conditions of Northern Electric Finance plc's £100,000,000 8.625 per cent. Guaranteed Bonds due 2005.
 
" Final Proposals " means the final proposals document published by OFGEM for each electricity distribution price control review.
 
" Financial Indebtedness " means, at any time, the outstanding principal, capital or nominal amount and any fixed or minimum premium payable on prepayment or redemption of any indebtedness for or in respect of:
 
 
(i)
moneys borrowed and debit balances with financial institutions;
 
(ii)
any amount raised by acceptance under any acceptance credit facility;
 
(iii)
any amount raised pursuant to any note purchase facility or the issue of bonds, notes, debentures, loan stock or any similar instrument;
 
 
(iv)
the amount of any liability in respect of any lease or hire purchase contract which would, in accordance with UK GAAP, be treated as a finance or capital lease;
 
 
(v)
receivables sold or discounted (other than any receivables to the extent they are sold on a non-recourse basis);
 
 
(vi)
any counter-indemnity obligation in respect of a guarantee, indemnity, bond, standby or documentary letter of credit or any other instrument issued by a bank or financial institution (excluding any given in respect of trade credit arising in the ordinary course of business);
 
 
(vii)
any amount raised by the issue of redeemable shares which are redeemable prior to 4 May 2035;
 
 
(viii)
any amount raised under any other transaction (including any forward sale or purchase agreement) having the commercial effect of a borrowing; and
 
 
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(ix)
(without double counting) the amount of any liability in respect of any guarantee or indemnity for any of the items referred to in paragraphs (i) to (viii) above.
 
" Further Bonds " means all further bonds created and issued by the Issuer in accordance with Condition 20 ( Further Bonds ) and/or the time being outstanding or, as the context may require, a specific proportion thereof.
 
" GIC " means (i) the investment agreement dated on or about 28 April 2005 between Ambac Capital Funding Inc, Ambac Assurance UK Limited, the Issuer and/or NEDL and (ii) any other guaranteed investment contract or similar investment agreement with a maturity of 60 months or less from the date of purchase and which is provided by a counterparty which has or whose obligations under such guaranteed investment contract or other agreement are guaranteed by an entity that has a credit rating of at least AA- from S&P and Aa3 from Moody's.
 
" Group " means NEDL and its Subsidiaries and "member of the Group" shall be construed accordingly.
 
" Group's Distribution Business " means the business carried on by NEDL from time to time pursuant to the terms of the Electricity Distribution Licence comprising, or ancillary to, the distribution of electricity.
 
" Guaranteed Amounts " means, with respect to any Scheduled Payment Date, the sum of (i) the interest (calculated in accordance with Condition 5 ( Interest )) due on the Bonds as of such Scheduled Payment Date and (ii) the principal due on the Bonds on such Scheduled Payment Date (net of any amount of premium or of such principal in excess of par).
 
" Incur " means, with respect to any Indebtedness, to incur, create, issue, assume or guarantee such Indebtedness.
 
" Indebtedness " means, for the purposes of Condition 10(a)(iii) only, with respect to the Issuer, NEDL or any of their respective Subsidiaries at any date of determination (without duplication), (i) all Indebtedness for Borrowed Money, (ii) all obligations in respect of letters of credit or other similar instruments (including reimbursement obligations with respect thereto), (iii) all obligations to pay the deferred and unpaid purchase price of property or services, which purchase price is due more than six months after the date of placing such property in service or taking delivery and title thereto or the completion of such services, except trade payables, (iv) all Capitalised Lease Obligations, (v) all indebtedness of other persons secured by a mortgage, charge, lien, pledge or other security interest on any asset of the Issuer, NEDL or any of their respective Subsidiaries, whether or not such indebtedness is assumed; provided that the amount of such Indebtedness shall be the lesser of (A) the fair market value of such asset at such date of determination and (B) the amount of the secured indebtedness, (vi) all indebtedness of other persons of the types specified in the preceding clauses (i) to (v) to the extent such indebtedness is guaranteed by the Issuer, NEDL or any of their respective Subsidiaries, and (vii) to the extent not otherwise included in this definition, obligations under Currency or Interest Rate Agreements. The amount of Indebtedness at any date shall be the outstanding balance at such date of all unconditional obligations as described above and, upon the occurrence of the contingency giving rise to the obligation, the maximum liability of any contingent obligations of the types specified in the preceding clauses (i) to (vii) at such date; provided that the amount outstanding at any time of any Indebtedness issued with original issue discount is the face amount of such Indebtedness less the remaining unamortised portion of the original issue discount of such Indebtedness at such time as determined in conformity with UK GAAP.
 
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" Indebtedness For Borrowed Money " means any indebtedness (whether being principal, premium, interest or other amounts) for (i) money borrowed, (ii) payment obligations under or in respect of any acceptance or acceptance credit, or (iii) any notes, bonds, debentures, debenture stock, loan stock or other debt securities offered, issued or distributed whether by way of public offer, private placing, acquisition consideration or otherwise and whether issued for cash or in whole or in part for a consideration other than cash.
 
" Interest Cover " means, in respect of any Relevant Period, the ratio of EBIT for that Relevant Period to Net Finance Charges for that Relevant Period.
 
" Investment Grade Rating " means a credit rating assigned by a Rating Agency of BBB- (in the case of such ratings assigned by S&P) or Baa3 (in the case of such ratings assigned by Moody's) or the equivalents of such ratings for the time being, or better.
 
" Issue Date " means 5 May 2005.
 
" Issuer Event of Default " means any of the events set out in Condition 11 ( Issuer Events of Default ).
 
" Moody's " means Moody's Investors Service, Inc.
 
" NEDL Senior Total Net Debt " means, at any time, the aggregate amount (without double counting) of all obligations of NEDL and the Issuer for or in respect of Financial Indebtedness (other than as between members of the Group) which ranks at least pari passu with the Bonds but:
 
 
(i)
deducting the aggregate amount of all obligations of NEDL and the Issuer in respect of Financial Indebtedness to the extent that the repayment or redemption of such Financial Indebtedness is provided for by the purchase by CE Electric UK Funding Company or any of its Subsidiaries of a GIC; and
 
(ii)       deducting the aggregate amount of freely available cash and Cash Equivalents held by NEDL or the Issuer at such time,
 
and so that no amount shall be excluded more than once.
 
A " Negative Rating Event " shall be deemed to have occurred if (i) the Issuer or NEDL does not, either prior to or no later than 14 days after the date of a Negative Certification (as defined in Condition 13 ( Restructuring Event )) in respect of the relevant Restructuring Event, seek, and thereupon use all reasonable endeavours to obtain, from a Rating Agency, a rating of the Reference Rated Securities or these Bonds or any other unsecured and unsubordinated debt of NEDL or of the Issuer which is guaranteed on an unsecured and unsubordinated basis by NEDL and in each case having an initial maturity of five years or more or (ii) if it does so seek and use such endeavours, it is unable, as a result of such Restructuring Event, to obtain such a rating which is an Investment Grade Rating.
 
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" Net Finance Charges " means, for any Relevant Period, the aggregate amount of interest paid on NEDL Senior Total Net Debt (net of interest received and after taking account of payments made and amounts received under any derivatives related to such NEDL Senior Total Net Debt) in respect of that Relevant Period.
 
" OFGEM " means the Gas and Electricity Markets Authority and/or the Office of Gas and Electricity Markets, including their successor office or body, as appropriate.
 
" Permitted Financial Indebtedness " means each and all of the following:
 
 
(i)
Financial Indebtedness of the Issuer under the Bonds and of NEDL pursuant to the Guarantee of the Bonds;
 
(ii)
Financial Indebtedness of the Issuer and Financial Indebtedness of NEDL outstanding on the Issue Date and not otherwise referred to in this definition of "Permitted Financial Indebtedness";
 
(iii)
Financial Indebtedness which cannot and shall not be accelerated and/or repaid if any Issuer Event of Default has occurred and, in each case, is continuing;
 
(iv)
Financial Indebtedness owed by one member of the Group to another member of the Group; and
 
(v)
Financial Indebtedness of NEDL from time to time which does not exceed an aggregate working capital amount of £50,000,000 (or the equivalent amount in one or more currencies).
 
" Potential Issuer Event of Default " means an event or circumstance which would with the giving of notice and/or lapse of time and/or the issuing of a certificate become an Issuer Event of Default.
 
A " Put Event " occurs on the date of the last to occur of (i) a Restructuring Event, (ii) either a Rating Downgrade or, as the case may be, a Negative Rating Event, and (iii) the relevant Negative Certification.
 
" Rating Agency " means each of S&P and Moody's.
 
A " Rating Downgrade " shall be deemed to have occurred if the then current rating assigned to any Reference Rated Securities by both Rating Agencies (whether provided by a Rating Agency at the invitation of the Issuer or by its own volition) is withdrawn or reduced from an Investment Grade Rating to a non-Investment Grade Rating (BB+/Ba1, or their respective equivalents for the time being, or worse) or, if both Rating Agencies shall then have already assigned a non-Investment Grade Rating (as described above) to either of the Reference Rated Securities, both such ratings are lowered one full rating category.
 
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" Reference Gilt " means, on any day, such sterling obligation of the United Kingdom Government listed on the Official List maintained by the Financial Services Authority in its capacity as the UK Listing Authority and traded on London Stock Exchange plc's market for listed securities whose duration most closely matches that of the Bonds on such day as the Trustee may from time to time determine to be appropriate on the advice of a gilt-edged market maker or other adviser selected by the Issuer and approved by the Trustee or in the event that the Issuer fails to select such person within a reasonable period of time, such person as the Trustee in its sole discretion may determine to be the most appropriate; and for which purpose duration shall mean Macauley Duration calculated on the basis of the formula set out on page 119 of The Handbook of Fixed Income Securities Second Edition 1987, published by Dow Jones-Irwin.
 
" Reference Rated Securities " means the £100,000,000 8.875 per cent. Guaranteed Bonds due 2020 and the £100,000,000 8.625 per cent. Guaranteed Bonds due 2005 of Northern Electric Finance plc if at any time and for so long as they shall be outstanding and have a rating from a Rating Agency, and otherwise any other unsecured and unsubordinated debt of NEDL or of the Issuer which is guaranteed on an unsecured and unsubordinated basis by NEDL and in each case having an initial maturity of five years or more which is rated by a Rating Agency.
 
" Regulated Asset Value " or " RAV " means the regulatory asset value of NEDL, as set out in the most recent Final Proposals, adjusted for inflation, as of the 31 March nearest to the date on which NEDL or the Issuer proposes to incur any further Financial Indebtedness other than Permitted Financial Indebtedness or to make any Distribution, provided that there shall be included in any determination of RAV the value of any assets which were included in RAV as at 31 March 2005 but which (i) subsequently are excluded from RAV by OFGEM, (ii) have become subject to a separate price control arrangement, and (iii) are still owned by NEDL as of the date of determination of RAV, and provided further that if at any time OFGEM alters its methodology of determining RAV in a manner which results in a change in RAV, NEDL and Ambac shall promptly in good faith negotiate appropriate adjustments to this definition (and to other terms defined or described herein solely for the purposes of this definition) so that the original intent of the undertakings set forth in Conditions 10(c), 10(d) and 10(e) is preserved and in the absence of agreement between NEDL and Ambac within 60 days, such adjustments shall be determined by an independent accountant experienced in the regulated electricity distribution market selected by NEDL.
 
" Reimbursement and Indemnity Agreement " means the agreement so named between the Issuer, NEDL and Ambac dated 5 May 2005.
 
" Relevant Indebtedness " means any indebtedness (whether being principal, premium, interest or other amounts) in the form of or represented by notes, bonds, debentures, debenture stock, loan stock or other securities, whether issued for cash or in whole or in part for a consideration other than cash, and which, with the agreement of the person issuing the same, are quoted, listed or ordinarily dealt in on any stock exchange or recognised over-the-counter or other securities market.
 
" Relevant Period " means each period of twelve months ending on a Calculation Date.
 
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" Restructuring Event " means the occurrence of any one or more of the following events:
 
 
(i)
(a) written notice being given to NEDL of revocation of its Electricity Distribution Licence which is requisite to the conduct of NEDL's business at the relevant time or (b) NEDL agreeing in writing to any revocation or surrender of its Electricity Distribution Licence which is requisite to the conduct of NEDL's business at the relevant time or (c) any legislation (whether primary or subordinate) being enacted terminating or revoking its Electricity Distribution Licence which is requisite to the conduct of NEDL's business at the relevant time, except in any such case in circumstances where a licence or licences is or are granted to NEDL, the Issuer or another Subsidiary of either of them 100% of the ordinary share capital of which is owned directly or indirectly by NEDL or the Issuer (the " Relevant Transferee ") and provided that the terms of such licence or licences are substantially no less favourable than the Electricity Distribution Licence in which event all references in these Terms and Conditions to the Electricity Distribution Licence and NEDL in its capacity as holder of the Electricity Distribution Licence shall hereafter be deemed to be references to the licence or licences on substantially no less favourable terms and the Relevant Transferee respectively; or
 
 
(ii)
any modification (other than a modification which is of a formal, minor or technical nature) being made to the terms and conditions of the Electricity Distribution Licence on or after the Issue Date unless two Directors of NEDL have certified in good faith to the Trustee that the modified terms and conditions are not materially less favourable to the business of NEDL. For the purposes of this paragraph (ii) a modification which (a) results in a licence or licences being granted to NEDL, the Issuer or another Subsidiary of either of them 100% of the ordinary share capital of which is owned directly or indirectly by NEDL or the Issuer (collectively, the " Applicable Transferees ") and provided that the terms of such licence are substantially no less favourable than the terms of the Electricity Distribution Licence or (b) results in a licence or licences being granted to an Applicable Transferee provided that the terms of such licence are substantially no less favourable than the terms of the Electricity Distribution Licence, shall not be deemed to be a modification within this paragraph (ii). In the event of such a modification as is referred to in (a) or (b), all references in these Terms and Conditions to the Electricity Distribution Licence and NEDL in its capacity as holder of the Electricity Distribution Licence shall thereafter be deemed to be references to the licence or licences granted to the Applicable Transferee and to the Applicable Transferee, respectively; or
 
(iii)
any legislation (whether primary or subordinate) is enacted which removes, qualifies or amends (other than an amendment which is of a formal, minor or technical nature) the duties of the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (or any successor) and/or OFGEM under of the Electricity Act as in force on the Issue Date, unless two Directors of the Issuer have certified in good faith to the Trustee that such removal, qualification or amendment does not have a materially adverse effect on the financial condition of NEDL.
 
 
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" Restructuring Period " means:
 
 
(i)
if at the time a Restructuring Event occurs there are Reference Rated Securities, the period of 90 days starting from and including the day on which the Restructuring Event occurs; or
 
(ii)
if at the time a Restructuring Event occurs there are not Reference Rated Securities, the period starting from and including the day on which the Restructuring Event occurs and ending on the day 90 days following the later of (a) the date on which the Issuer shall seek to obtain a rating pursuant to the definition of Negative Rating Event prior to the expiry of the 14 days referred to in the definition of Negative Rating Event and (b) the date on which a Negative Certification shall have been given to the Issuer in respect of the Restructuring Event.
 
" S&P " means Standard & Poor's Ratings Services, a division of The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.
 
" Scheduled Payment Date " means (i) with respect to interest on the Bonds, each Interest Payment Date (as defined in Condition 5 ( Interest )) and (ii) with respect to principal of the Bonds,   4 May2035.
 
" Security Interest " means a mortgage, charge, lien, pledge or other security interest.
 
" Subsidiary " means a subsidiary or subsidiary undertaking within the meaning of the Companies Act.
 
" UK GAAP " means generally accepted accounting principles in the United Kingdom.
 
" Utilities Act " means the Utilities Act 2000 as amended or re-enacted from time to time and all subordinate legislation made pursuant thereto.
 
4.       Negative Pledge
 
So long as any of the Bonds remain outstanding (as defined in the Trust Deed), each of the Issuer and NEDL will ensure that none of its respective Relevant Indebtedness or the Relevant Indebtedness of any of its respective Subsidiaries nor any guarantee given by it or by any of its respective Subsidiaries of the Relevant Indebtedness of any other person will be secured by a Security Interest upon, or with respect to, any of the present or future business, undertaking, assets or revenues (including any uncalled capital) of the Issuer, NEDL or any of their respective Subsidiaries (as the case may be) unless the Issuer or, as applicable, NEDL shall, before or at the same time as the creation of the Security Interest, take any and all action necessary to ensure that:
 
 
(a)
all amounts payable by the Issuer or, as applicable, NEDL under the Bonds, the Coupons, the Trust Deed and the Reimbursement and Indemnity Agreement are secured to the satisfaction of the Controlling Party equally and rateably with the Relevant Indebtedness or guarantee of Relevant Indebtedness, as the case may be, by such Security Interest; or
 
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(b)
such other Security Interest or guarantee or other arrangement (whether or not including the giving of a Security Interest) is provided in respect of all amounts payable by the Issuer or, as applicable, NEDL under the Bonds, the Coupons, the Trust Deed and the Reimbursement and Indemnity Agreement either (i) as the Trustee shall in its absolute discretion deem not materially less beneficial to the interests of the Bondholders, or (ii) as shall be approved by an Extraordinary Resolution (as defined in the Trust Deed) of the Bondholders, and (iii) (in either case) as Ambac shall in its absolute discretion deem not materially less beneficial to the interests of Ambac.
 
5.      Interest
 
The Bonds bear interest (" Scheduled Interest ") from (and including) the Issue Date at the rate of 5.125 per cent. per annum payable annually in arrear on 4 May in each year (each, an " Interest Payment Date "). There will be a short first coupon in respect of the period from (and including) 5 May 2005 to (but excluding) 4 May 2006. Each Bond will cease to bear Scheduled Interest from the due date for redemption thereof, unless upon due presentation, payment of principal or premium (if any) is improperly withheld or refused. In such event, each Bond shall continue to bear interest (" Default Interest ") at such rate (both before and after judgment) until whichever is the earlier of (i) the day on which all sums due in respect of such Bond up to that day are received by or on behalf of the relevant holder and (ii) the day falling seven days after the Trustee or the Principal Paying Agent has notified Bondholders in accordance with Condition 17 ( Notices ) of receipt of all sums then due in respect of all the Bonds up to that seventh day (except to the extent that there is failure in the subsequent payment to the relevant holder under these Terms and Conditions). If Scheduled Interest or Default Interest is required to be calculated for a period of less than one year, it will be calculated on the basis of a 360 day year consisting of 12 months of 30 days each and, in the case of an incomplete month, the number of days elapsed.
 
Default Interest does not accrue on Default Interest. The payment of Default Interest is not guaranteed under the Financial Guarantee.
 
6.       Payments
 
Payments of principal, premium (if any) or interest in respect of the Bonds will be made against surrender of Bonds or, in the case of payments of interest due on an Interest Payment Date, against surrender of Coupons, at the specified office of any Paying Agent by a sterling cheque drawn on, or at the option of the holder, by transfer to a sterling account maintained by the payee with a branch of a bank in the City of London, subject in all cases to any fiscal or other laws and regulations applicable in the place of payment, but without prejudice to the provisions of Condition 8 ( Taxation ).
 
Upon the due date for redemption of any Bond, all unmatured Coupons and Talons relating to such Bond (whether or not attached) shall become void and no payment shall be made in respect of them. Where any Bond is presented for redemption without all unmatured Coupons and/or Talons relating to it, redemption shall be made only against the provision of such indemnity as the Issuer, NEDL and Ambac may require.
 
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If the due date for redemption of any Bond is not 4 May in any year, interest accrued in respect of such Bond from (and including) the last preceding 4 May will be paid only against presentation and surrender of such Bond.
 
If the due date for payment of any amount in respect of any Bond or Coupon is not a business day, then the holder thereof shall not be entitled to payment of the amount due until the next following business day nor to any further interest or other payment in respect of such delay. The expression " business day " in this Condition means a day other than a Saturday or Sunday on which banks are open for business in the place where the Bond or Coupon is presented and, in the case of payment by transfer to a sterling account as referred to above, in the City of London.
 
The names of the initial Principal Paying Agent and the other initial Paying Agents and their initial specified offices are set out at the end of these Terms and Conditions. The Issuer and NEDL reserve the right, subject to the prior written approval of the Trustee and the Controlling Party, at any time to vary or terminate the appointment of any Paying Agent and to appoint additional or other Paying Agents provided that the Issuer and NEDL will at all times maintain (a) a principal paying agent, (b) a paying agent in London and (c), if European Council Directive 2003/48/EC or any other Directive implementing the conclusions of the ECOFIN Council meeting of 26-27 November 2000 is brought into force, a paying agent in a member state of the European Union that will not be obliged to withhold or deduct tax pursuant to such Directive or any law implementing or complying with, or introduced to conform to, such Directive. Notice of any such termination or appointment and of any changes in the specified offices of the Paying Agents will be given to the Bondholders in accordance with Condition 17 ( Notices ) as soon as practicable thereafter. Under no circumstances will interest be payable in the United States of America or any possession of the United States of America.
 
On or after the maturity date of the final Coupon which is (or was at the time of issue) part of a coupon sheet relating to the Bonds (each, a " Coupon Sheet "), the Talon forming part of such Coupon Sheet may be exchanged at the specified office of the Principal Paying Agent for a further Coupon Sheet (including, if applicable, a further Talon but excluding any Coupons in respect of which claims have already become void pursuant to Condition 9 ( Prescription )). Upon the due date for redemption of any Bond, any unexchanged Talon relating to such Bond shall become void and no Coupon will be delivered in respect of such Talon.
 
7.       Redemption and Purchase
 
 
(a)
Scheduled redemption : Unless previously redeemed, or purchased and cancelled, the Issuer will redeem the Bonds on 4 May 2035 at their outstanding principal amount (the " Scheduled Principal ").
 
 
(b)
Redemption at the option of the Issuer : The Issuer may, having given not less than 30 nor more than 45 days' notice in accordance with Condition 17 ( Notices ) (which notice shall be irrevocable), redeem the whole or part (in principal amount of £5,000,000 or integral multiples thereof) of the Bonds at any time prior to 4 May 2035 at a price which shall be the higher of the following (the " Redemption Price "), together with Scheduled Interest accrued up to and including the date of redemption:
 
 
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(i)      par; and
 
(ii)     that price, expressed as a percentage (rounded to three decimal places, 0.0005 being rounded upwards), at which the Gross Real Redemption Yield (calculated as described below) on the Bonds, if they were to be purchased at such price on the third dealing day prior to the due date for redemption, would be equal to the Gross Real Redemption Yield on such dealing day of the Reference Gilt, on the basis of the middle market price of the Reference Gilt prevailing at 11:00 a.m. on such dealing day, as determined by The Royal Bank of Scotland plc (or such other person as the Trustee may approve).
 
Any reference in these Terms and Conditions to principal shall be deemed to include any sum payable as the Redemption Price.
 
Notices of redemption will specify the date fixed for redemption, the applicable Redemption Price and, in the case of partial redemption, the aggregate principal amount of the Bonds to be redeemed, the serial numbers of the Bonds called for redemption, the serial numbers of the Bonds previously called for redemption and not presented for payment and the aggregate principal amount of the Bonds to remain outstanding after the redemption. No such notice of redemption may be given by the Issuer unless it shall have presented to the Trustee a certificate signed by two Directors of the Issuer (upon which the Trustee may rely absolutely) that it will have the funds, not subject to the interest of any other person, required to redeem the Bonds at the Redemption Price plus accrued interest on the date specified for redemption. Upon the expiry of any notice of redemption the Issuer shall be bound to redeem the Bonds called for redemption at the applicable Redemption Price. Any partial redemption of the Bonds shall be on the basis of selection by drawings (the method of such drawings to be approved by the Trustee in its absolute discretion).
 
" Gross Real Redemption Yield " means a yield expressed as a percentage and calculated on a basis consistent with the basis indicated by the United Kingdom Debt Management Office publication "Formulae for calculating Gilt Prices from Yields" published on 8 June 1998 with effect from 1 November 1998, page 5.
 
 
(c)
Redemption for tax reasons : If, as a result of any change in, or amendment to, the laws or regulations of the United Kingdom or any political sub-division of, or any authority in, or of, the United Kingdom having power to tax, or any change in the application or official interpretation of such laws or regulations, which change or amendment becomes effective after 29 April 2005, the Issuer has or will become obliged to pay additional amounts as provided or referred to in Condition 8 ( Taxation ) or NEDL has or (if a demand were made under the Guarantee of the Bonds) would become obliged to pay additional amounts on account of tax as provided in the Guarantee of the Bonds (and such amendment or change has been evidenced by the delivery by the Issuer or, as applicable, NEDL to the Trustee and Ambac (who shall, in the absence of manifest error, accept such certificate as sufficient evidence thereof) of a certificate signed by two Directors of the Issuer or, as applicable, NEDL on behalf of the Issuer or, as applicable, NEDL stating that such amendment or change has occurred (irrespective of whether such amendment or change is then effective), describing the facts leading thereto and stating that such obligation cannot be avoided by the Issuer or, as applicable, NEDL taking reasonable measures available to it) the Issuer may at its option, having given not less than 30 nor more than 60 days notice to the Bondholders in accordance with Condition 17 ( Notices ) (which notice shall be irrevocable), redeem all the Bonds (other than Bonds in respect of which the Issuer shall have given a notice of redemption pursuant to Condition 7(b) ( Redemption at the option of the Issuer ) prior to any notice being given under this Condition 7(c)), but not some only, at their outstanding principal amount together with interest accrued to (but excluding) the date of redemption, provided that no notice of redemption shall be given earlier than 90 days before the earliest date on which the Issuer or NEDL would be required to pay the additional amounts were a payment in respect of the Bonds then due or (as the case may be) a demand under the Guarantee of the Bonds were then made and provided further that no notice of redemption may be given by the Issuer unless two Directors of the Issuer shall have certified to the Trustee that it will have the funds, not subject to the interest of any other person, required to redeem the Bonds at their principal amounts outstanding plus accrued interest on the date specified for redemption (the Trustee being able to rely on such certificate absolutely).
 
 
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Under the terms of the Financial Guarantee, Ambac does not guarantee any of the amounts payable by the Issuer following an early redemption of the Bonds pursuant to Condition 7(b) ( Redemption at the option of the Issuer ) or 7(c) ( Redemption for tax reasons ). Ambac will not be obliged under any circumstances to accelerate payment under the Financial Guarantee; if it does so, the amount payable will be the par value of the Bonds together with accrued interest as at the date of acceleration. Any amount of principal on the Bonds in excess of par will not be guaranteed by Ambac under the Financial Guarantee.
 
 
(d)
Purchase : The Issuer, NEDL or any of their respective Subsidiaries may at any time purchase or otherwise acquire Bonds (provided that all unmatured Coupons and Talons are attached thereto or are surrendered therewith) at any price in the open market or otherwise. If purchases are made by tender, tenders must be available to all Bondholders alike.
 
 
(e)
Cancellation : All Bonds which are redeemed pursuant to this Condition by the Issuer shall be cancelled (together with all relative unmatured Coupons attached thereto or surrendered therewith) and accordingly may not be reissued or resold. Bonds purchased by or on behalf of the Issuer, NEDL or any of their respective Subsidiaries may be held or reissued or resold or surrendered for cancellation.

 
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8.      Taxation
 
 
(a)
All payments in respect of the Bonds and Coupons by the Issuer or NEDL shall be made without withholding or deduction for, or on account of, any present or future taxes, duties, assessments or governmental charges of whatever nature (" Taxes ") imposed or levied by or on behalf of the United Kingdom, or any political subdivision of, or authority in, or of, the United Kingdom having power to tax, unless the withholding or deduction of the Taxes is required by law. In that event, the Issuer or (as the case may be) NEDL will pay such additional amounts as may be necessary in order that the net amounts received by the Bondholders and Couponholders after the withholding or deduction shall equal the respective amounts which would have been receivable in respect of the Bonds or, as the case may be, Coupons in the absence of the withholding or deduction; except that no additional amounts shall be payable in relation to any payment in respect of any Bond or Coupon:
 
 
(i)
to, or to a third party on behalf of, a holder who is liable to the Taxes in respect of the Bond or Coupon by reason of his having some connection with the United Kingdom other than the mere holding of the Bond or Coupon; or
 
(ii)
presented for payment in the United Kingdom; or
 
(iii)
to, or to a third party on behalf of, a holder who would not be liable or subject to the withholding or deduction by making a declaration of non-residence or other similar claim for exemption to the relevant tax authority; or
 
(iv)
where such withholding or deduction is imposed on a payment to an individual and is required to be made pursuant to European Council Directive 2003/48/EC or any other Directive implementing the conclusions of the ECOFIN Council meeting of 26-27 November 2000 or any law implementing or complying with, or introduced in order to conform to, such Directive ; or
 
(v)
presented for payment by or on behalf of a holder who would have been able to avoid such withholding or deduction by presenting the relevant Bond or Coupon to another Paying Agent in a member state of the European Union; or
 
(vi)
presented for payment more than 30 days after the Relevant Date except to the extent that the holder would have been entitled to additional amounts on presenting the same for payment on the last day of the period of 30 days.
 
 
(b)
In these Terms and Conditions, " Relevant Date " means the date on which the payment first becomes due, but if the full amount of the money payable has not been received in London by the Principal Paying Agent or the Trustee on or before the due date, it means the date on which, the full amount of the money having been so received, notice to that effect shall have been duly given to the Bondholders by the Issuer in accordance with Condition 17 ( Notices ).
 
 
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(c)
Any reference in these Terms and Conditions to any amounts in respect of the Bonds shall be deemed also to refer to any additional amounts which may be payable under this Condition or under any undertakings given in addition to, or in substitution for, this Condition 8 pursuant to the Trust Deed.
 
Under the terms of the Financial Guarantee, Ambac does not guarantee any additional amounts payable by the Issuer or NEDL under this Condition 8.
 
9.      Prescription
 
Bonds and Coupons will become void unless presented for payment within periods of ten years and five years, respectively, from the Relevant Date for payment in respect thereof, subject to the provisions of Condition 6 ( Payments ).
 
10.     Covenants by the Issuer and NEDL to Ambac
 
So long as any of the Bonds remain outstanding and for so long as no Ambac Event of Default has occurred and is continuing (and provided that the covenants in this Condition 10 will continue where any Ambac Event of Default relating to paragraph (a)(i) of the definition of "Ambac Event of Default" is caused solely by an administrative or technical error which is cured within three Business Days of such Ambac Event of Default first arising), the Issuer has undertaken with Ambac (with respect to itself) that it will, and NEDL has undertaken with Ambac (with respect to itself) that it will and will procure that the Issuer will, comply with certain covenants and restrictions set forth in the Trust Deed which include, inter alia , the following:
 
 
(a)
General Covenants : It shall:
 
 
(i)
(in the case of NEDL) not modify or amend, or agree to any modification or amendment to the Electricity Distribution Licence without the consent of OFGEM;
 
 
(ii)
use all reasonable endeavours to procure that the underlying or shadow credit rating of the Bonds and any outstanding public long term unsecured, unguaranteed and unsubordinated debt of NEDL (and any outstanding public long-term unsecured and unsubordinated debt of the Issuer, guaranteed only by NEDL) are assigned Investment Grade Ratings by both Rating Agencies, and that such Investment Grade Ratings are maintained;
 
 
(iii)
not, without the prior written consent of Ambac, agree to any amendment to the provisions of the memorandum and articles of association for the time being of the Issuer and/or NEDL (as applicable) that (x) restrict the activities in which any of the Issuer, NEDL or any of their respective Subsidiaries (as applicable) may engage or participate in, (y) limit the disposal by any such company of any or all of its assets, revenues or properties of any nature whatsoever and (z) limit the Incurrence of Indebtedness by any such company, provided that this paragraph (iii) shall not apply to any such amendment required by OFGEM and if such amendment is required by OFGEM, the Issuer and/or NEDL shall notify Ambac in writing as soon as practicable of such requirement;
 
 
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(iv)
procure that no Security Interest is created or granted upon, or with respect to, any of the present or future ordinary shares of the Issuer, NEDL or any of their respective Subsidiaries;
 
(v)
not, without the prior written consent of Ambac, modify or amend, or consent to any modification or amendment of any Existing Negative Pledge;
 
(vi)
not have any subsidiary undertaking (as defined in the Companies Act) except (in the case of NEDL) for the Issuer, unless required to do so by OFGEM or consequent to any rule or regulation of OFGEM which is applicable to NEDL; and
 
(vii)
procure that NEDL will at all times continue to own, directly or indirectly, 100% of the issued share capital of the Issuer.
 
 
(b)
Interest Cover Ratio : NEDL will procure that:
 
 
(1)
Interest Cover for each Relevant Period ending on or prior to 31 December 2006 shall be not less than 2.00:1; and
 
(2)
Interest Cover for each Relevant Period ending after 31 December 2006 shall not be less than 2.50:1.
 
 
(c)
Limitation on Financial Indebtedness of the Issuer : The Issuer shall not, and NEDL will procure that the Issuer will not, incur any further Financial Indebtedness other than Permitted Financial Indebtedness unless the following conditions are satisfied:
 
 
(i)
if such Financial Indebtedness is incurred:
 
 
(1)
in the period commencing on the Issue Date and ending on 30 December 2008, the ratio of NEDL Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Financial Indebtedness is to be incurred and after giving effect to the gross proposed Financial Indebtedness on a pro forma basis but less cash raised to the extent that it is retained for (i) redemption of existing indebtedness or (ii) Capital Investment) to RAV does not exceed 0.68:1; or
 
(2)
on or after 31 December 2008, the ratio of NEDL Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Financial Indebtedness is to be incurred and after giving effect to the gross proposed Financial Indebtedness on a pro forma basis but less cash raised to the extent that it is retained for (i) redemption of existing indebtedness or (ii) Capital Investment) to RAV does not exceed 0.65:1; an d
 
 
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(ii)
such Financial Indebtedness (save for any Financial Indebtedness which in aggregate does not exceed 5% of RAV) ranks no higher than pari passu with the Bonds.
 
 
(d)
Limitation on Financial Indebtedness of NEDL : NEDL will not incur any further Financial Indebtedness other than Permitted Financial Indebtedness unless the following conditions are satisfied:
 
 
(i)
if such Financial Indebtedness is incurred:
 
 
(1)
in the period commencing on the Issue Date and ending on 30 December 2008, the ratio of NEDL Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Financial Indebtedness is to be incurred and after giving effect to the gross proposed Financial Indebtedness on a pro forma basis but less cash raised to the extent that it is retained for (i) redemption of existing indebtedness or (ii) Capital Investment) to RAV does not exceed 0.68:1; or
 
(2)
on or after 31 December 2008, the ratio of NEDL Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Financial Indebtedness is to be incurred and after giving effect to the gross proposed Financial Indebtedness on a pro forma basis but less cash raised to the extent that it is retained for (i) redemption of existing indebtedness or (ii) Capital Investment) to RAV does not exceed 0.65:1; and
 
 
(ii)
such Financial Indebtedness (save for any Financial Indebtedness which in aggregate does not exceed 5% of RAV) ranks no higher than pari passu with NEDL's present and future unsecured payment obligations or with NEDL's obligations under the Guarantee of the Bonds.
 
 
(e)
Limitation on Distributions : NEDL will not make any Distribution unless:
 
 
(i)
in the period commencing on the Issue Date and ending on 30 December 2006, the ratio of NEDL Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Distribution is to be made and calculated on a pro forma basis as if the Distribution had been made) to RAV does not exceed 0.79:1; or
 
 
(ii)
in the period commencing on 31 December 2006 and ending on 30 December 2007, the ratio of NEDL Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Distribution is to be made and calculated on a pro forma basis as if the Distribution had been made) to RAV does not exceed 0.77:1; or
 
 
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(iii)
on or after 31 December 2007, the ratio of NEDL Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Distribution is to be made and calculated on a pro forma basis as if the Distribution had been made) to RAV does not exceed 0.75:1.
 
11.     Issuer Events of Default
 
If:
 
 
(a)
default is made in the payment of any principal or premium (if any) in respect of any Bond pursuant to Condition 7 ( Redemption and Purchase ), or for a period of three Business Days or more in the payment of any interest due in respect of the Bonds; or
 
 
(b)
the Issuer or NEDL fails to perform or observe any of its other obligations, covenants, conditions or provisions under the Bonds, the Trust Deed or the Reimbursement and Indemnity Agreement and (except where the Controlling Party shall have certified to the Issuer or NEDL, as applicable, in writing that it considers such failure to be incapable of remedy in which case no such notice or continuation as is hereinafter mentioned will he required) such failure continues for the period of 60 days (or such longer period as the Trustee may, with the approval of the Controlling Party, permit) next following the service by the Trustee on the Issuer or NEDL, as applicable of notice requiring the same to be remedied; or
 
(c)
(i) any other Indebtedness For Borrowed Money of the Issuer, NEDL or any of their respective Subsidiaries becomes due and repayable prior to its stated maturity by reason of an event of default (however described) or (ii) any such Indebtedness For Borrowed Money is not paid when due or (iii) the Issuer, NEDL or any of their respective Subsidiaries fails to pay when due any amount payable by it under any present or future guarantee for, or indemnity in respect of any Indebtedness For Borrowed Money of any person or (iv) any security given by the Issuer, NEDL or any of their respective Subsidiaries for any Indebtedness For Borrowed Money of any person or any guarantee or indemnity of Indebtedness For Borrowed Money of any person becomes enforceable by reason of default in relation thereto and steps are taken to enforce such security save in any such case referred to in (i), (ii), (iii) or (iv) where there is a bona fide dispute as to whether the relevant Indebtedness For Borrowed Money or any such guarantee or indemnity as aforesaid shall be due and payable, and provided that the aggregate amount of the relevant Indebtedness For Borrowed Money in respect of which any one or more of the events mentioned above in this sub-paragraph (c) has or have occurred equals or exceeds 5% of RAV and such event shall continue unremedied or unwaived for more than 14 days (or such longer grace period as may have been originally provided in the applicable instrument) and the time for payment of such amount has not been expressly extended (until such time as any payment default is remedied, cured or waived); or
 
 
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(d)
NEDL ceases to own directly or indirectly 100% of the ordinary share capital of the Issuer; or
 
(e)
any order shall be made by any competent court or any resolution shall be passed for the winding up or dissolution of the Issuer or NEDL, save for the purposes of amalgamation, merger, consolidation, reorganisation, reconstruction or other similar arrangement on terms previously approved in writing by the Controlling Party or (where the Controlling Party is the Trustee) by an Extraordinary Resolution of the Bondholders; or
 
 
(f)
the Issuer, NEDL or any of their respective Subsidiaries shall cease to carry on the whole or substantially the whole of its business, save in each case for the purposes of amalgamation, merger, consolidation, reorganisation, reconstruction or other arrangement (i) not involving or arising out of the insolvency of the Issuer, NEDL or such Subsidiary and under which all or substantially all of its assets are transferred, in the case of the Issuer, to a Subsidiary of the Issuer or NEDL, in the case of NEDL, to a Subsidiary of NEDL or, in the case of a Subsidiary, to the Issuer, NEDL or another Subsidiary of either of them or to a transferee which is, or immediately upon such transfer becomes a Subsidiary or (ii) under which all or substantially all of its assets are transferred to a third party or parties (whether a Subsidiary or Subsidiaries of the Issuer or NEDL or not) for full consideration by the Issuer, NEDL or a Subsidiary on an arm's length basis or (iii) the terms of which have previously been approved in writing by the Controlling Party or (where the Controlling Party is the Trustee) by an Extraordinary Resolution of the Bondholders provided that if NEDL shall cease to hold or shall transfer the Electricity Distribution Licence (other than where the Electricity Distribution Licence is revoked, terminated or surrendered in the circumstances envisaged by paragraph (i)(a), (b) or (c) of the definition of Restructuring Event in Condition 3 ( Definitions ) and such revocation, termination or surrender does not constitute a Restructuring Event pursuant to paragraph (i) of such definition) NEDL shall be deemed to have ceased to carry on the whole or substantially the whole of its business (and neither of exceptions (i) and (ii) above shall apply) unless (A) the transferee of the Electricity Distribution Licence is the Issuer or a Subsidiary of the Issuer or NEDL, at least 51% of the ordinary share capital of which is owned directly or indirectly by the Issuer or NEDL (the " NE Transferee ") and (B) if Ambac is then the Controlling Party, the NE Transferee guarantees the Bonds pursuant to a guarantee in substantially the same terms as the Guarantee of the Bonds and covenants in favour of Ambac in substantially the same terms as the covenants set forth in Condition 10 ( Covenants by the Issuer and NEDL to Ambac ) and in either such event all references in these Terms and Conditions to NEDL in its capacity as holder of the Electricity Distribution Licence shall hereafter be deemed to be references to the NE Transferee; or
 
(g)
the Issuer, NEDL or any Subsidiary shall suspend or shall threaten to suspend payment of its debts generally or shall be declared or adjudicated by a competent court to be unable, or shall admit in writing its inability, to pay its debts (within the meaning of Section 123(1) or (2) of the Insolvency Act 1986) as they fall due, or shall be adjudicated or found insolvent by a competent court or shall enter into any composition or other similar arrangement with its creditors under Part I of the Insolvency Act 1986; or
 
 
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(h)
a receiver, administrative receiver, Energy Administrator, administrator or other similar official shall be appointed in relation to the Issuer, NEDL or any Subsidiary or in relation to the whole or a substantial part of the undertaking or assets of any of them or a distress, execution or other process shall be levied or enforced upon or sued out against, or any encumbrancer shall take possession of, the whole or a substantial part of the assets of any of them and in any of the foregoing cases it or he shall not be paid out or discharged within 120 days (or such longer period as the Trustee may in its absolute discretion permit);
 
and, in the case of sub-paragraphs (b) and (c) and (f) to (h) (inclusive) the Controlling Party shall have certified in writing that the relevant event is in its opinion materially adverse to (1) where the Controlling Party is Ambac, the interests of Ambac or (2) where the Controlling Party is the Trustee, the interests of the Bondholders, the Controlling Party may at its discretion (and if the Controlling Party is the Trustee it shall on the request in writing of the holders of at least one quarter in principal amount of the Bonds then outstanding or upon being so directed by an Extraordinary Resolution of the Bondholders), by notice in writing to the Issuer declare that the Bonds are, and they shall accordingly thereby forthwith become, immediately due and repayable at their principal amount together with accrued interest (as provided in the Trust Deed), provided always that the giving of any notice in relation to any Issuer Event of Default shall not operate as a waiver of any of the Controlling Party's rights (including the right to give a further notice) or prevent the Controlling Party from giving a further notice in the manner referred to above in relation to that Issuer Event of Default at any time thereafter.
 
So long as any of the Bonds remain outstanding the Issuer and/or NEDL will, forthwith upon becoming aware of any Issuer Event of Default or Potential Issuer Event of Default, give notice in writing thereof to the Trustee and to Ambac.
 
For the purpose of sub-paragraph (g) above, Section 123(1)(a) of the Insolvency Act 1986 shall have effect as if for "£750" there was substituted "£250,000" or such higher figure as OFGEM may from time to time determine by notice in writing to the Secretary of State (as referred to in the Electricity Distribution Licence) and NEDL.
 
Neither the Issuer, NEDL nor any Subsidiary shall be deemed to be unable to pay its debts for the purposes of sub-paragraph (g) above if any such demand as is mentioned in Section 123(1)(a) of the Insolvency Act I986 is being contested in good faith by the Issuer, NEDL or the relevant Subsidiary with recourse to all appropriate measures and procedures.
 
While Ambac is the Controlling Party, neither the Bondholders nor the Trustee will have any right to call for repayment of the Bonds following the occurrence of an Issuer Event of Default.
 
 
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12.      Ambac Events of Default
 
 
(a)
Each of the following events is an Ambac Event of Default:
 
 
(i)
any amount guaranteed by Ambac under the Financial Guarantee falls due for payment in accordance with the terms of the Financial Guarantee and is not paid by Ambac on the date stipulated in the Financial Guarantee; or
 
(ii)
Ambac disclaims, disaffirms, repudiates or challenges the validity of any of its obligations under the Financial Guarantee or seeks to do so; or
 
(iii)
a court of competent jurisdiction enters a final and non-appealable order, judgment or decree for the winding-up, or the appointment of an administrator or receiver (including an administrative receiver or manager) of Ambac (or, as the case may be, of a material part of its property or assets); or
 
(iv)
Ambac:
 
 
(1)
presents any petition or takes any formal steps or proceedings for the winding-up or the appointment of an administrator or receiver (including an administrative receiver or manager) of Ambac (or, as the case may be, of a material part of its property or assets); or
 
(2)
makes or enters into any general assignment, composition, arrangement (including, without limitation, a voluntary arrangement under Part I of the Insolvency Act 1986) or compromise with or for the benefit of any of its creditors; or
 
(3)
becomes unable to pay its debts within the meaning of section 123(2) or section 123(1)(e) of such Insolvency Act or admits in writing its inability, or fails generally, to pay its debts as they become due; or
 
(4)
at any time it is or becomes unlawful for Ambac to perform or comply with any part or all of its obligations under the Financial Guarantee or any of its obligations thereunder are not or cease to be legal, valid or binding;
 
 
(b)
So long as any of the Bonds remain outstanding, Ambac will, forthwith upon becoming aware of any Ambac Event of Default, give notice in writing thereof to the Trustee and the Issuer.
 
An Ambac Event of Default will not result in an Issuer Event of Default or in the Bonds becoming repayable early. Following an Ambac Event of Default, Ambac shall cease to be the Controlling Party.

 
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13.     Restructuring Event
 
(a)
 
 
 
(i)
If, at any time following the occurrence of an Ambac Event of Default, while any of the Bonds remains outstanding, a Restructuring Event occurs and prior to the commencement of or during the Restructuring Period an Independent Financial Adviser (as defined below) shall have certified in writing to the Trustee that such Restructuring Event will not be or is not, in its opinion, materially prejudicial to the interests of the Bondholders, the following provisions of this Condition shall cease to have any further effect in relation to such Restructuring Event.
 
 
(ii)
If, at any time following the occurrence of an Ambac Event of Default while any of the Bonds remains outstanding, a Restructuring Event occurs and (subject to paragraph (a)(i) above):
 
 
(1)
within the Restructuring Period, either:
 
 
(A)
if at the time such Restructuring Event occurs there are Reference Rated Securities, a Rating Downgrade in respect of such Restructuring Event also occurs; or
 
 
(B)
if at such time there are not Reference Rated Securities, a Negative Rating Event also occurs; and
 
 
(2)
an Independent Financial Adviser shall have certified in writing to the Trustee that such Restructuring Event is, in its opinion, materially prejudicial to the interests of the Bondholders (a " Negative Certification "),
 
then, unless at any time the Issuer shall have given a notice under Condition 7(b) ( Redemption at the option of the Issuer ) or Condition 7(c) ( Redemption for tax reasons ), in each case expiring prior to the Put Date (as defined below), the holder of each Bond will, upon the giving of a Put Event Notice (as defined below), have the option (the " Put Option ") to require the Issuer to redeem or, at the option of the Issuer, purchase (or procure the purchase of) that Bond on the Put Date at its principal amount together with (or, where purchased, together with an amount equal to) interest (if any) accrued to (but excluding) the Put Date.
 
Notwithstanding the occurrence of a Rating Downgrade or a Negative Rating Event, no Bondholder shall be entitled to exercise the Put Option and to serve a Put Notice if the rating assigned to the Reference Rated Securities or these Bonds by any Rating Agency is subsequently increased to, or, as the case may be, there is assigned to the Reference Rated Securities or these Bonds by any Rating Agency an Investment Grade Rating or, in the event that the rating assigned to the Reference Rated Securities immediately prior to the occurrence of the Rating Downgrade or Negative Rating Event was not an Investment Grade Rating, if such rating is restored, in either case prior to any Negative Certification being issued.
 
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Any certificate by an Independent Financial Adviser as aforesaid as to whether or not, in its opinion, any Restructuring Event is materially prejudicial to the interest of the Bondholders shall, in the absence of manifest error, be conclusive and binding on Ambac, the Trustee, the Issuer, NEDL and the Bondholders. For the purposes of this Condition, an " Independent Financial Adviser " means a financial adviser appointed by the Issuer or NEDL and approved by the Trustee (such approval not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed) or, if the Issuer or NEDL shall not have appointed such an adviser within 21 days after becoming aware of the occurrence of such Restructuring Event and the Trustee is indemnified to its satisfaction against the costs of such adviser, appointed by the Trustee following consultation with the Issuer and/or NEDL.
 
A Rating Downgrade or a Negative Rating Event or a non-Investment Grade Rating shall be deemed not to have occurred as a result of or in respect of a Restructuring Event if the Rating Agency making the relevant reduction in rating or, where applicable, declining to assign an Investment Grade Rating as provided in this Condition does not announce or publicly confirm or inform the Trustee in writing at its request that the reduction or, where applicable, declining to assign a rating of at least investment grade was the result, in whole or in part, of any event or circumstance comprised in or arising as a result of the applicable Restructuring Event.
 
The Trust Deed provides that the Trustee is under no obligation to ascertain whether a Restructuring Event, a Negative Rating Event, a Rating Downgrade or any event which could lead to the occurrence of or could constitute a Restructuring Event, a Negative Rating Event or a Rating Downgrade has occurred and until it shall have actual knowledge or express notice pursuant to the Trust Deed to the contrary the Trustee may assume that no Restructuring Event, Negative Rating Event, Rating Downgrade or other such event has occurred.
 
 
(b)
Promptly upon the Issuer or NEDL becoming aware that a Put Event (as defined in Condition 3 ( Definitions )) has occurred, and in any event not later than 14 days after the occurrence of a Put Event, the Issuer shall, and at any time upon the Trustee becoming similarly so aware the Trustee may, and if so requested by the holders of at least one-quarter in principal amount of the Bonds then outstanding shall, give notice (a " Put Event Notice ") to the Bondholders in accordance with Condition 17 ( Notices ) specifying the nature of the Put Event and the procedure for exercising the Put Option.
 
 
(c)
To exercise the Put Option, the holder of a Bond must deliver such Bond to the specified office of any Paying Agent, on a day which is a business day (as defined in Condition 6 ( Payments )) in London and in the place of such specified office falling within the period (the " Put Period ") of 45 days after that on which a Put Event Notice is given, accompanied by a duly completed and signed notice of exercise in the form (for the time being current) obtainable from any specified office of any Paying Agent (a " Put Notice ") and in which the holder may specify a bank account complying with the requirements of Condition 6 ( Payments ) to which payment is to be made under this Condition. Each Bond should be delivered together with all Coupons and Talons appertaining thereto maturing after the day (the " Put Date ") being the fifteenth day after the date of expiry of the Put Period, failing which any such missing Coupon or Talon will become void and no payment shall be made in respect of it. The Paying Agent to which such Bond and Put Notices are delivered shall issue to the Bondholder concerned a non-transferable receipt in respect of the Bond so delivered. Payment in respect of any Bond so delivered shall be made, if the holder duly specifies a bank account in the Put Notice to which payment is to be made on the Put Date, by transfer to that bank account and, in every other case, on or after the Put Date, in each case against presentation and surrender or (as the case may be) endorsement of such receipt at any specified office of any Paying Agent, subject in any such case as provided in Condition 6 ( Payments ). A Put Notice, once given, shall be irrevocable. For the purposes of Conditions 9 ( Prescription ), 11 ( Issuer Events of Default ), 14 (Enforcement), 16 ( Replacement of Bonds and Coupons ) and 18 ( Meetings of Bondholders, Modification and Waiver ) receipts issued pursuant to this Condition shall be treated as if they were Bonds. The Issuer shall redeem or, at the option of the Issuer, purchase (or procure the purchase of) the relevant Bond on the applicable Put Date unless previously redeemed or purchased.
 
 
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The Financial Guarantee does not guarantee the payment of any sums due to Bondholders upon exercise of the Put Option pursuant to this Condition 13.
 
14.      Enforcement
 
 
(a)
Limitation on Bondholders : Save as provided below, only the Trustee may pursue the remedies available under general law or under the Trust Deed to enforce the rights of the Bondholders and Couponholders and no such holder will be entitled to proceed against the Issuer or Ambac unless the Trustee, having become bound to act in accordance with the terms of the Trust Deed, fails to do so and such failure is continuing. If, in connection with any insolvency, bankruptcy, administration, dissolution, liquidation or analogous procedure relating to the Issuer or NEDL, a payment on the Bonds by the Issuer or NEDL is claimed to be or is avoided as a preferential transfer, Ambac may (provided that Ambac is then the Controlling Party) direct all matters relating to such claim or avoidance on behalf of the Trustee, the Bondholders and the Couponholders.
 
 
(b)
Enforcement Proceedings : At any time after amounts in respect of principal of and interest on the Bonds or amounts payable by Ambac under the Financial Guarantee shall have become due and payable but are unpaid, the Trustee may, at its discretion, and without further notice but subject as mentioned below, take such proceedings against, respectively:
 
 
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(i)
the Issuer and/or NEDL as it may think fit to enforce the provisions of the Trust Deed in accordance with the terms thereof; and/or
 
(ii)
Ambac as it may think fit to enforce the provisions of the Financial Guarantee.
 
If the Trustee is not the Controlling Party it shall not be permitted to take any such proceedings as are referred to in Condition 14(b)(i) above against the Issuer and/or NEDL unless it has been directed by the Controlling Party to do so and shall only be bound to take proceedings against the Issuer and/or NEDL at the direction of the Controlling Party if it has been indemnified to its satisfaction by the Controlling Party. If the Trustee is the Controlling Party, it shall only be bound to take proceedings pursuant to Condition 14(b)(i) or (ii) if it has been indemnified to its satisfaction by the Bondholders and it has been so requested in writing by the holders of not less than 25 per cent. of the principal amount outstanding (as defined in the Trust Deed) of the Bonds or has been so directed by an Extraordinary Resolution (as defined in the Trust Deed).
 
15.      Controlling Party
 
Subject to (i) the terms of the Trust Deed, (ii) Ambac being at that time the Controlling Party and (iii) Ambac giving notice to the Trustee that it intends to exercise the Trust Rights, Ambac shall have exclusive control to exercise the Trust Rights or to direct the exercise of the Trust Rights (as applicable) without regard to the interests of any other person, and will not be a fiduciary or owe any fiduciary duties to any person under the Trust Deed and will be exclusively authorised to direct and refrain from directing, the Trustee under the Trust Deed in the exercise of the Trust Rights without regard to the interests of any other person.
 
For these purposes " Trust Rights " means (i) the right to direct the Trustee to consent to any amendment, waiver, modification and/or extension of any of the provisions of the Trust Deed or any document entered into pursuant to the Trust Deed and (ii) the right to direct the Trustee with respect to each and every right, power and discretion of, or exercisable by, the Trustee under any provisions of the Trust Deed or any document entered into pursuant to the Trust Deed.
 
16.     Replacement of Bonds and Coupons
 
Should any Bond or Coupon be lost, stolen, mutilated, defaced or destroyed it may, subject to all applicable laws and stock exchange requirements, be replaced at the specified office of the Principal Paying Agent (or such other Paying Agent as may be approved by the Trustee for such purpose) upon payment by the claimant of the expenses, taxes and duties incurred in connection therewith and on such terms as to evidence and indemnity as the Issuer may reasonably require. Mutilated or defaced Bonds or Coupons must be surrendered before replacements will be issued.
 
17.     Notices
 
All notices to Bondholders shall be valid if published in a leading English language national daily newspaper (which is expected to be the Financial Times ) or, if this is not practicable, in such leading English language daily newspaper with a circulation in Europe as the Trustee may approve. Such notices shall be deemed to have been given on the date of such publication or, if published more than once or on different dates, on the date of the first such publication. If publication is not practicable, notice shall be given in such other manner, and shall be deemed to have been given on such date, as the Trustee may approve.
 
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Couponholders will be deemed for all purposes to have notice of the contents of any notice given to the Bondholders in accordance with this Condition.
 
18.     Meetings of Bondholders, Modification and Waiver
 
The Trust Deed contains provisions for convening meetings of the Bondholders to consider any matter affecting their interests, including modification by Extraordinary Resolution of these Terms and Conditions or the provisions of the Trust Deed. The quorum at any such meeting for passing an Extraordinary Resolution shall be one or more persons holding or representing a clear majority in principal amount of the Bonds for the time being outstanding, or at any adjourned such meeting one or more persons being or representing Bondholders whatever the principal amount of the Bonds so held or represented, except that, at any meeting the business of which includes the modification of certain of these Terms and Conditions and certain of the provisions of the Trust Deed (including altering the currency of payment of the Bonds or Coupons), the necessary quorum for passing an Extraordinary Resolution will be one or more persons holding or representing not less than two-thirds, or at any adjourned such meeting not less than one-third, in principal amount of the Bonds for the time being outstanding. An Extraordinary Resolution passed at any meeting of Bondholders shall be binding on all Bondholders, whether or not they are present or represented at the meeting, and on all Couponholders.
 
Subject as provided in the Trust Deed, Ambac is entitled to receive notice of and to attend meetings of Bondholders but is not entitled to vote.
 
Without prejudice to Condition 15 ( Controlling Party ), subject to the prior written consent of Ambac (if Ambac is then the Controlling Party), the Trustee may, without the consent of the Bondholders or Couponholders, agree (i) other than in respect of the matters detailed in the proviso to paragraph 19 of Schedule 5 to the Trust Deed, to any modification to these Terms and Conditions or to any of the provisions of the Trust Deed or the Financial Guarantee or to any waiver or authorisation of any breach or proposed breach by the Issuer or NEDL of these Terms and Conditions or of any of the provisions of the Trust Deed or determine that any event, condition or act which would otherwise be an Issuer Event of Default shall not be so treated provided that, in the opinion of the Trustee, so to do would not be materially prejudicial to the interests of the Bondholders, or (ii) to any modification to these Terms and Conditions or to any of the provisions of the Trust Deed or the Financial Guarantee which is made to correct a manifest error or which is of a formal, minor or technical nature, provided that the Issuer, NEDL and Ambac may, without the consent of the Trustee or the Bondholders or Couponholders, agree to any modification to Condition 10 ( Covenants by the Issuer and NEDL to Ambac ).
 
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In connection with the exercise of its trusts, powers, authorities or discretions (including, but not limited to, any modification, waiver, authorisation or substitution) the Trustee shall have regard to the interests of Bondholders as a class and, in particular, but without limitation, shall not have regard to the consequences of the exercise of its trusts, powers or discretions for individual Bondholders and Couponholders resulting from their being for any purpose domiciled or resident in, or otherwise connected with, or subject to the jurisdiction of, any particular territory and the Trustee shall not be entitled to require, nor shall the Bondholder or Couponholder be entitled to claim, from the Issuer, NEDL, Ambac or any other person any indemnification or payment in respect of any tax consequence of any such exercise upon individual Bondholders or Couponholders, except to the extent already provided for in Condition 8 ( Taxation ) and/or any undertaking given to, or in substitution for, Condition 8 ( Taxation ) pursuant to the Trust Deed.
 
Any modification to these Terms and Conditions or to any of the provisions of the Trust Deed or the Financial Guarantee or any waiver or authorisation of any breach or proposed breach by the Issuer or NEDL of these Terms and Conditions or any of the provisions of the Trust Deed shall be binding on the Bondholders and the Couponholders and, unless the Trustee agrees otherwise, any modification shall be notified by the Issuer to the Bondholders as soon as practicable thereafter in accordance with Condition 17 ( Notices ).
 
19.     Substitution
 
The Trustee may, without the consent of the Bondholders or Couponholders, agree with the Issuer, with the consent of Ambac (such consent not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed) to the substitution of NEDL or any wholly-owned Subsidiary of NEDL in place of the Issuer (or of any previous substitute under this Condition) as the principal debtor under the Bonds, the Coupons and the Trust Deed, subject to the Trustee being of the opinion that the interests of the Bondholders will not be materially prejudiced thereby and certain other conditions set out in the Trust Deed (including, in the case of a Substitution of the Issuer with a company other than NEDL, a requirement that the Guarantee of the Bonds is fully effective in relation to the obligations of the new principal debtor under the Trust Deed and the Bonds) being complied with.
 
20.     Further Bonds
 
 
(a)
Subject as mentioned below, power will be reserved to the Issuer to create and issue Further Bonds forming (or so as to form after the first payment of interest thereon) a single series with the Bonds provided that :
 
 
(i)
Ambac has consented (in its absolute discretion) to amend or substitute the Financial Guarantee so that the Financial Guarantee also covers such Further Bonds on the same terms as the Bonds;
 
(ii)
the Trustee is satisfied that the rating granted in respect of the Bonds by S&P and Moody's will not thereby be adversely affected; and
 
 
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(iii)
such issue shall be constituted by a deed supplemental to the Trust Deed (in such form as the Trustee may approve).
 
 
(b)
The Issuer shall not be entitled to exercise the power reserved in this Condition 20 ( Further Bonds ) while any default exists in relation to any payment by the Issuer or NEDL of any amounts due under the Trust Deed or the Reimbursement and Indemnity Agreement.
 
21.      Trustee
 
The Trust Deed contains provisions governing the responsibility of the Trustee and providing for its indemnification in certain circumstances, including provisions relieving it from taking proceedings against the Issuer, NEDL and/or Ambac unless indemnified to its satisfaction. The Trustee may not resign its appointment unless a successor, willing to act in such capacity, has been appointed by the Issuer and NEDL (acting together) with the prior consent of Ambac (if then the Controlling Party) and the Bondholders by Extraordinary Resolution, provided that the Trustee shall not be prevented from resigning its appointment if, having given notice in writing to the Issuer, NEDL and Ambac (if then the Controlling Party) of its intention to so resign its appointment, a successor is not appointed within the period of three months from the date of such notice.
 
22.      Redenomination, Renominalisation and Reconventioning
 
 
(a)
Notice of redenomination : If the United Kingdom becomes or, announces its intention to become, a Participating Member State, the Issuer may, without the consent of Ambac, the Bondholders and Couponholders, on giving at least 30 days' prior notice to Ambac, the Trustee, the Bondholders and the Paying Agents, designate a date (the " Redenomination Date "), being an Interest Payment Date under the Bonds falling on or after the date on which the United Kingdom becomes a Participating Member State.
 
 
(b)
Redenomination : Notwithstanding the other provisions of these Conditions, with effect from the Redenomination Date:
 
 
(i)
the Bonds shall be deemed to be redenominated into Euro in the denomination of Euro 0.01 (or such other denomination as the Issuer shall determine) with a principal amount for each Bond equal to the principal amount of that Bond in Sterling, converted into Euro at the rate for conversion of such currency into Euro established by the Council of the European Union pursuant to the Treaty (including compliance with rules relating to rounding in accordance with European Community regulations); provided, however, that , if the Issuer determines, with the agreement of the Principal Paying Agent, that market practice in respect of the redenomination into Euro 0.01 (or such other denomination as the Issuer shall determine) of internationally offered securities is different from that specified above, such provisions shall be deemed to be amended so as to comply with such market practice and the Issuer shall promptly notify Ambac, the Bondholders and Couponholders, each listing authority, stock exchange and/or quotation system (if any) by which the Bonds have then been admitted to listing, trading and/or quotation and the Paying Agents of such deemed amendments;
 
 
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(ii)
if Bonds have been issued in definitive form:
 
 
(1)
all unmatured Coupons denominated in Sterling (whether or not attached to the Bonds) will become void with effect from the date (the " Euro Exchange Date ") on which the Issuer gives notice (the " Euro Exchange Notice ") to the Bondholders that replacement Bonds and Coupons denominated in Euro are available for exchange ( provided that such Bonds and Coupons are available) and no payments will be made in respect thereof;
 
(2)
the payment obligations contained in all Bonds denominated in Sterling will become void on the Euro Exchange Date but all other obligations of the Issuer thereunder (including the obligation to exchange such Bonds in accordance with this Condition 22) shall remain in full force and effect;
 
(iii)
new Bonds and Coupons denominated in Euro will be issued in exchange for Bonds and Coupons denominated in Sterling in such manner as the Principal Paying Agent may specify and as shall be notified to the Bondholders in the Euro Exchange Notice; and
 
(iv)
all payments in respect of the Bonds (other than, unless the Redenomination Date is on or after such date as Sterling ceases to be a sub-division of the Euro, payments of interest in respect of periods commencing before the Redenomination Date) will be made solely in Euro by Euro cheque drawn on, or by credit or transfer to a Euro account (or other account to which Euro may be credited or transferred) maintained by the payee with, a bank in a country in a city in which banks have access to the TARGET System.
 
 
(c)
Interest : Following redenomination of the Bonds pursuant to this Condition 22, where Bonds have been issued in definitive form, the amount of interest due in respect of the Bonds will be calculated by reference to the aggregate principal amount of the Bonds presented (or, as the case may be, in respect of which Coupons are presented) for payment by the relevant holder.
 
(d)
Interpretation : In this Condition:
 
" Participating Member State " means a member state of the European Union which adopts the Euro as its lawful currency in accordance with the Treaty; and
 
" Treaty " means the Treaty establishing the European Community, as amended.
 
 
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23.     Governing Law
 
The Trust Deed, the Bonds, the Coupons and the Financial Guarantee are governed by, and shall be construed in accordance with, English law.



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SCHEDULE 5
Provisions for Meetings of Bondholders
 
1.    
The following expressions shall have the following meanings:
 
1.1  
" voting certificate " means a certificate in the English language issued by a Paying Agent and dated in which it is stated:
 
1.1.1  
that on that date Bonds (not being Bonds in respect of which a block voting instruction has been issued and is outstanding in respect of the meeting specified in such voting certificate or any adjournment of such meeting) bearing specified serial numbers were deposited with such Paying Agent (or to its order at a bank or other depositary) and that such Bonds will not be released until the earlier of:
 
(a)  
the conclusion of the meeting specified in such certificate or any adjournment of it; and
 
(b)  
the surrender of the certificate to the Paying Agent which issued it; and
 
1.1.2  
that its bearer is entitled to attend and vote at such meeting or any adjournment of it in respect of the Bonds represented by such certificate;
 
1.2  
" block voting instruction " means a document in the English language issued by a Paying Agent and date in which:
 
1.2.1  
it is certified that Bonds (not being Bonds in respect of which a voting certificate has been issued and is outstanding in respect of the meeting specified in such block voting instruction or any adjournment of it) have been deposited with such Paying Agent (or to its order at a bank or other depositary) and that such Bonds will not be released until the earlier of:
 
(a)  
the conclusions of the meeting specified in such document or any adjournment of it; and
 
(b)  
the surrender, not less that 48 hours before the time fixed for such meeting or adjournment, of the receipt for each such deposited Bond which is to be released to the Paying Agent which issued it and the notification of such surrender by such Paying Agent to the Issuer;
 
1.2.2  
it is certified that each depositor of such Bonds or a duly authorised agent on his behalf has instructed such Paying Agent that the votes attributable to his Bonds so deposited should be cast in a particular way in relation to the resolution to be put to such meeting or any adjournment of it and that all such instructions are, during the period of 48 hours before the time fixed for such meeting or adjourned meeting, neither revocable nor subject to amendment;
 
1.2.3  
the total number and the serial numbers of the Bonds so deposited are listed, distinguishing with regard to each such resolution between those in respect of which instructions have been given (i) to vote for, and (ii) to vote against, the resolution; and
 

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1.2.4  
any person named in such document (a " proxy ") is authorised and instructed by such Paying Agent to vote in respect of the Bonds so listed in accordance with the instructions referred to in 1.2.3 above as set out in such document.
 
1.3  
" 24 hours " shall mean a period of 24 hours including all or part of a day upon which banks are open for business in both the place where the relevant meeting is to be held and in each of the places where the Paying Agents have their specified offices (disregarding for this purpose the day upon which such meeting is to be held) and such period shall be extended by one period or, to the extent necessary, more periods of 24 hours until there is included as aforesaid all or part of a day upon which banks are open for business in all of the places as aforesaid; and
 
1.4  
" 48 hours " shall mean a period of 48 hours including all or part of a day upon which banks are open for business in both the place where the relevant meeting is to be held and in each of the places where the Paying Agents have their specified offices (disregarding for this purpose the day upon which such meeting is to be held) and such period shall be extended by one period or, to the extent necessary, more periods of 24 hours until there is included as aforesaid all or part of two days upon which banks are open for business in all of the places as aforesaid.
 
1.5  
References in this Schedule 5 to Ambac shall apply only for so long as Ambac is the Controlling Party.
 
2.    
A holder of a Bond may obtain a voting certificate from a Paying Agent or require a Paying Agent to issue a block voting instruction by depositing his Bond with such Paying Agent not later than 48 hours before the time fixed for any meeting. Voting certificates and block voting instructions shall be valid until the relevant Bonds are released pursuant to paragraph 1 above and until then the holders of any such voting certificate or (as the case may be) the proxy named in any such block voting instruction shall, for all purposed in connection with any meeting or proposed meeting of Bondholders, be deemed to be the holder of the Bonds to which such voting certificate or block voting instruction relates and the Paying Agent with which (or to the order of which) such Bonds have been deposited shall be deemed for such purposes not to be the holder of those Bonds.
 
3.    
Each of the Issuer, Ambac and the Trustee at any time may, and the Trustee (subject to its being indemnified to its satisfaction against all costs and expenses thereby occasioned) upon a request in writing of Bondholders holding not less than one-tenth in principal amount of the Bonds for the time being outstanding shall, convene a meeting of Bondholders. Whenever any such party is about to convene any such meeting it shall forthwith give notice in writing to the other parties of the day, time and place of the meeting and of the nature of the business to be transacted at it. Every such meeting shall be held at such time and place as the Trustee may approve.
 

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4.    
At least 21 days' notice (exclusive of the day on which the notice is given and of the day on which the meeting is held) specifying the day, time and place of meeting shall be given to the Bondholders (with a copy to the Issuer and Ambac or, where the meeting is convened by the Issuer, Ambac and the Trustee). A copy of the notice shall in all cases be given by the party convening the meeting to the other parties. Such notice shall also specify, unless in any particular case the Trustee otherwise agrees, the nature of the resolutions to be proposed and shall include a statement to the effect that Bonds may be deposited with (or to the order of) any Paying Agent for the purpose of obtaining voting certificates or appointing proxies not later than 48 hours before the time fixed for the meeting.
 
5.    
A person (who may, but need not, be a Bondholder) nominated in writing by the Trustee may take the chair at every such meeting but if no such nomination is made or if at any meeting the person nominated shall not be present within 15 minutes after the time fixed for the meeting the Bondholders present shall choose one of their number to be chairman, failing which the Issuer may appoint a chairman. The chairman of an adjourned meeting need to be the same person as was chairman the original meeting.
 
6.    
At any such meeting any one or more persons present in person holding Bonds or voting certificates and holding or representing in the aggregate not less than one-tenth in principal amount of the Bonds for the time being outstanding shall (except for the purpose of passing an Extraordinary Resolution) form a quorum for the transaction of business and no business (other than the choosing of a chairman) shall be transacted at any meeting unless the requisite quorum be present at the commencement of business. The quorum at any such meeting for passing an Extraordinary Resolution shall (subject as provided below) be one or more persons present in person holding Bonds or voting certificates and holding or representing in the aggregate a clear majority in principal amount of the Bonds for the time being outstanding provided that at any meeting the business of which includes any of the matters specified in the proviso in paragraph 19 below the quorum shall be one or more persons present in person holding Bonds or voting certificates and holding or representing in the aggregate not less than two-thirds in principal amount of the Bonds for the time being outstanding.
 
7.    
If within 15 minutes from the time fixed for any such meeting a quorum is not present the meeting shall, if convened upon the requisition of Bondholders, be dissolved. In any other case it shall stand adjourned (unless the Issuer, Ambac and the Trustee agree that it be dissolved) for such period, not being less than 14 days nor more than 42 days, and to such place, as may be decided by the chairman. At such adjourned meeting one or more persons present in person holding Bonds or voting certificates (whatever the principal amount of the Bonds so held or represented) shall form a quorum and may pass any resolution and decide upon all matters which could properly have been dealt with at the meeting from which the adjournment took place had quorum been present at such meeting provided that at any adjourned meeting at which is to be proposed an Extraordinary Resolution for the purpose of effecting any of the modifications specified in the proviso to paragraph 19 below the quorum shall be one or more persons present in person holding Bonds or voting certificates and holding or representing in the aggregate not less than one-third in principal amount of the Bonds for the time being outstanding.
 

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8.    
The chairman may with the consent of (and shall if directed by) any meeting adjourn such meeting from time to time and from place to place but no business shall be transacted at any adjourned meeting except business which might lawfully have been transacted at the meeting from which the adjournment took place.
 
9.    
At least 10 days' notice of any meeting adjourned through want of a quorum shall be given in the same manner as for an original meeting and such notice shall state the quorum required at such adjourned meeting. It shall not, however, otherwise be necessary to give any notice of an adjourned meeting.
 
10.    
Every question submitted to a meeting shall be decided in the first instance by a show of hands and in case of equality of votes of the chairman shall both on a show of hands and on a poll have a casting vote in addition to the vote or votes (if any) which he may have as a Bondholder or as a holder of a voting certificate.
 
11.    
At any meeting, unless a poll is (before or on the declaration of the result of the show of hands) demanded by the chairman, the Issuer, Ambac, the Trustee or by one or more persons holding one or more Bonds or voting certificates and holding or representing in the aggregate not less than one-fiftieth in principal amount of the Bonds for the time being outstanding, a declaration by the chairman that a resolution has been carried or carried by a particular majority or lost or not carried by any particular majority shall be conclusive evidence of the fact without proof of the number or proportion of the votes recorded in favour of or against such resolution.
 
12.    
If at any meeting a poll is so demanded, it shall be taken in such manner and (subject as provided below) either at once or after such an adjournment as the chairman directs and the resolute of such poll shall be deemed to be the resolution of the meeting at which the poll was demanded as at the date of the taking of the poll. The demand for a poll shall not prevent the continuation of the meeting for the transaction of any business other than the question on which the poll has been demanded.
 
13.    
Any poll demanded at any meeting on the election of a chairman or on any question of adjournment shall be taken at the meeting without adjournment.
 
14.    
The issuer, the Trustee and Ambac (through their respective representatives) and their respective financial and legal advisers may attend and speak at any meeting of Bondholders. No one else may attend at any meeting of Bondholders or join with others in requesting the convening of such a meeting unless he is the holder of a Bond or a voting certificate.
 
15.    
At any meeting on a show of hands every person who is present in person and who produces a Bond or voting certificate shall have one vote and on a poll every person who is so present shall have one vote in respect of each £50,000 principal amount of the Bonds so produced or represented by the voting certificate. Without prejudice to the obligations of proxies named in any block voting instruction, any person entitled to more than one vote need not use all his votes or cast all the votes to which he is entitled in the same way.

 
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16.    
The proxy named in any block voting instruction need not be a Bondholder.
 
17.    
Each block voting instruction shall be deposited at the registered office of the Issuer, or at such other place as the Trustee shall designate or approve, not less than 24 hours before the time appointed for holding the meeting or adjourned meeting at which the proxy named in the block voting instruction proposes to vote and in default the block voting instruction shall not be treated as valid unless the chairman of the meeting decides otherwise before such meeting or adjourned meeting proceeds to business. A notarially certified copy of each such block voting instruction and satisfactory proof (if applicable) shall if required by the Trustee be produced by the proxy at the meeting or adjourned meeting but the Trustee shall not thereby be obliged to investigate or be concerned with the validity of, or the authority of, the proxy named in any such block voting instruction.
 
18.    
Any vote given in accordance with the terms of a block voting instruction shall be valid even if the block voting instruction or any of the Bondholders' instructions pursuant to which it was executed has been previously revoked or amended, provided that no intimation in writing of such revocation or amendment shall have been received from the relevant Paying Agent by the Issuer or the Trustee at its registered office or by the chairman of the meeting in each case not less than 24 hours before the time fixed for the meeting or adjourned meeting at which the block voting instruction is used.
 
19.    
A meeting of Bondholders shall, subject to the Conditions, in addition to the powers given above, but without prejudice to any powers conferred on other persons by this Trust Deed, have power exercisable by Extraordinary Resolution:
 
19.1  
to sanction any proposal by the Issuer or Ambac for any modification, abrogation, variation or compromise of, or arrangement in respect of, the rights of the Bondholders and/or the Couponholders against the Issuer (whether such rights shall arise under this Trust Deed or otherwise) or the obligations of Ambac under the Financial Guarantee);
 
19.2  
to sanction the exchange or substitution for the Bonds of, or the conversion of the Bonds into, shares, bonds, or other obligations or securities of the Issuer or any other body corporate formed or to be formed;
 
19.3  
to assent to any modification of this Trust Deed, the Bonds or the Coupons which shall be proposed by the Issuer or the Trustee;
 
19.4  
to authorise anyone to occur in and do all such things as may be necessary to carry out and give effect to any Extraordinary Resolution;
 
19.5  
to give any authority, direction or sanction which under this Trust Deed or the Bonds is required to be given by Extraordinary Resolution;
 
 
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19.6  
to appoint any persons (whether Bondholders or not) as a committee or committees to represent the interests of the Bondholders and to confer upon such committee or committees any powers or discretions which the Bondholders could themselves exercise by Extraordinary Resolution;
 
19.7  
to approve a person proposed to be appointed as a new Trustee and to remove any Trustee;
 
19.8  
to approve the substitution of any entity for the issuer (or any previous substitute) as principal debtor under this Trust Deed or the substitution of any person for Ambac as guarantor under the Financial Guarantee;
 
19.9  
to discharge or exonerate the Trustee from any liability in respect of any act or omission for which it may become responsible under this Trust Deed, the Bonds or the Coupons; and
 
19.10  
to waive or authorise any breach by the Issuer or Ambac of their respective obligations under this Trust Deed and the Financial Guarantee;
 
provided that the special quorum provisions contained in the proviso to paragraph 6 above and, in the case of an adjourned meeting, in the proviso to paragraph 7 above shall apply in relation to any Extraordinary Resolution for the purpose of paragraph 19.2 or 19.8 above or for the purpose of making any modification to the provisions contained in this Trust Deed, the Bonds or the Coupons which would have the effect of:
 
19.10.1  
postponing the maturity of the Bonds or the dates on which interest is payable in respect of the Bonds; or
 
19.10.2  
reducing or cancelling the principal amount of, any premium payable on redemption of, or interest on the Bonds; or
 
19.10.3  
changing the currency of payment of the Bonds; or
 
19.10.4  
modifying the provisions contained in this Schedule concerning the quorum required at any meeting of Bondholders or the majority required to pass an Extraordinary Resolution; or
 
19.10.5  
amending this proviso.
 
20.  
An Extraordinary Resolution passed at a meeting of Bondholders duly convened and held in accordance with this Trust Deed shall be binding upon all the Bondholders, whether or not present at such meeting, and upon all the Couponholders and each of the Bondholders and Couponholders shall be bound to give effect to it accordingly. The passing of any such resolution shall be conclusive evidence that the circumstances of such resolution justify the passing of it.

 
97

 
21.  
The expression " Extraordinary Resolution " means a resolute on passed at a meeting of Bondholders duly convened and held in accordance with these provisions by a majority consisting of not less than three-quarters of the votes cast.
 
22.  
Minutes of all resolutions and proceedings at every such meeting shall be made and entered in the books to be from time to time provided for that purpose by the Issuer or the Trustee and any such minutes, if purporting to be signed by the chairman of the meeting at which such resolutions were passed or proceedings transacted or by the chairman of the next succeeding meeting of Bondholders, shall be conclusive evidence of the matters contained in them and until the contrary is proved every such meeting in respect of the proceedings of which minutes have been so made and signed shall be deemed to have been duly convened and held and all resolutions passed or proceedings transacted at it to have been duly passed and transacted.
 
23.  
Subject to all other provisions contained in this Trust Deed the Trustee may without the consent of the Bondholders prescribe such further regulations regarding the holding of meetings of Bondholders and attendance and voting at them as the Trustee may in its sole discretion determine including particularly (but without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing) such regulations and requirements as the Trustee thinks reasonable:
 
23.1  
so as to satisfy itself that persons who purport to requisite on a meeting in accordance with paragraph 3 above or who purport to make any requisition to the Trustee in accordance with this Trust Deed are in fact Bondholders; and
 
23.2  
as to the form of voting certificates or block voting instructions to be issued pursuant to paragraph 1 above so as to satisfy itself that persons who purport to attend or vote at any meeting of Bondholders are entitled to do so in accordance with this Trust Deed.
 

98

 
SCHEDULE 6
Excluded Rights of the Trustee
 
" Excluded Rights " means each and every right, power, authority and discretion of, or exercisable by the Trustee:
 
(a)  
except as otherwise specifically provided herein and subject to the rights of the Controlling Party, to make any determination contemplated or required under this Trust Deed (including any determination as to the occurrence or otherwise of an Ambac Event of Default) (but for the avoidance of doubt, save as otherwise specifically provided herein, Excluded Rights shall not include the right to exercise any rights consequent on such determination);
 
(b)  
to agree to make any amendment or any repeated waiver or consent which has the effect of resulting in or permitting any amendment to the provisions of the Financial Guarantee;
 
(c)  
to make any claim under, enforce or agree to any amendment to the Financial Guarantee;
 
(d)  
which is provided for the purpose of enabling the Trustee to protect its own interests;
 
(e)  
which relates to the application by the Trustee of (i) the principal and premium (if any) of the Bonds on a redemption of the Bonds, or (ii) any interest payable on the Bonds from time to time;
 
(f)  
to determine amounts due in relation to indemnities in favour of the Trustee under this Trust Deed;
 
(g)  
to require the making of any payment due and payable to it or the Bondholders;
 
(h)  
unless at such time Ambac is the Controlling Party, to determine whether to require acceleration of the Bonds in accordance with Condition 11 ( Issuer Events of Default ) of the Bonds;
 
(i)  
to determine the amount of sums due in relation to expenses and stamp duties pursuant to this Trust Deed; and
 
(j)  
to make a claim for expenses under this Trust Deed.
 

99


SIGNATURES
 
 
  EXECUTED as a DEED and delivered by   
   ) 
  NORTHERN ELECTRIC FINANCE PLC
   )
  acting by a Director and the Secretary
   )  
   
  /s/  Ken Linge  
  Ken Linge  
  Director  
   
  /s/ John Elliott  
  John Elliott  
  Secretary  
 
  EXECUTED as a  DEED and delivered by
 )
 
NORTHERN ELECTRIC DISTRIBUTION LIMITED
   )
  acting by a Director and the Secretary
   )  
   
  /s/  Ken Linge  
  Ken Linge  
  Director  
   
  /s/ John Elliott  
  John Elliott  
  Secretary  
 
 EXECUTED and DELIVERED as a DEED
)
Seal
  under the Common Seal of
 )
 
  AMBAC ASSURANCE UK LIMITED
 )
 
 in the presence of
  )
 
     
  /s/ Thomas Jacquot
   
  Thomas Jacquot    
  Authorised Signatory    
 
 
 
 EXECUTED and DELIVERED as a DEED
 )
 
  By HSBC TRUSTEE (C.I.) LIMITED
 )
 
 in the presence of:
 )
 
     
 /s/ Paul Cattermole    
 Paul Cattermole    
 Authorised Signatory    
     
 /s/ Ian Grahm    
 Ian Graham    
 Authorised Signatory    
 
 

 
100

EXHIBIT 99.2
 

 
 
EXECUTION COPY
   
   
 
DATED 5 MAY 2005
 
NORTHERN ELECTRIC FINANCE PLC
 
and
 
 
NORTHERN ELECTRIC DISTRIBUTION LTD.
 
and
 
AMBAC ASSURANCE UK LIMITED
 
 

 
REIMBURSEMENT AND INDEMNITY AGREEMENT
 

 
 




 
CONTENTS
 
Clause
 
 
Page
 
1.
 
Definitions And Interpretation
 
3
 
2.
 
Representations, Warranties And Covenants
 
7
 
3.
 
Issue Of The Financial Guarantee
 
12
 
4.
 
Subrogation
 
13
 
5.
 
Reimbursement Obligation
 
13
 
6.
 
Indemnity
 
14
 
7.
 
Guarantee By The Guarantor
 
16
 
8.
 
Value Added Tax
 
18
 
9.
 
Term Of This Agreement
 
18
 
10.
 
Further Assurances
 
18
 
11.
 
Obligations Absolute
 
18
 
12.
 
Assignment
 
19
 
13.
 
Liability Of Ambac
 
19
 
14.
 
Payment Procedure
 
20
 
15.
 
Remedies And Waivers
 
21
 
16.
 
Amendment, Partial Invalidity And Counterparts
 
21
 
17.
 
Notices
 
22
 
18.
 
Contracts (Rights Of Third Parties) Act 1999
 
23
 
19.
 
Economic And Monetary Union
 
23
 
20.
 
Confidentiality
 
24
 
21.
 
Law And Jurisdiction
 
24
 

 



THIS REIMBURSEMENT AND INDEMNITY AGREEMENT is made by way of deed and dated 5 May 2005
 
BETWEEN :
 
(1)  
NORTHERN ELECTRIC FINANCE PLC ,   a company incorporated under the laws of England and Wales (registered number 3070482) (the " Issuer ");
 
(2)  
NORTHERN ELECTRIC DISTRIBUTION LTD. , a company incorporated under the laws of England and Wales (registered number 02906593) (the " Guarantor "); and
 
(3)  
AMBAC ASSURANCE UK LIMITED, a company incorporated under the laws of England and Wales (registered number 3248674) (" Ambac ").
 
WHEREAS:
 
(A)  
Pursuant to the Trust Deed, the Issuer will issue the Bonds.
 
(B)  
The Issuer has requested that Ambac issue the Financial Guarantee in respect of all of the Bonds, pursuant to the terms of the Financial Guarantee (the " Guaranteed Obligations ").
 
(C)  
The Issuer will use the proceeds of the Bond issue for, inter alia , the Issuer's general corporate purposes, to repay a portion of the Issuer's indebtedness as it falls due and to meet certain transaction fees and expenses.
 
(D)  
The Parties hereto agree that the issue of the Financial Guarantee is conditional upon the satisfaction of certain conditions precedent as set out in the Subscription Agreement.
 
(E)  
The Guarantor has agreed to guarantee to Ambac the due and punctual observance and performance by the Issuer of all its monetary obligations under the Finance Documents.
 
IT IS AGREED AS FOLLOWS :
 
1.  
DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATION
 
1.1   
Definitions
 
1.1.1  
Except as otherwise defined herein, all terms defined in the Financial Guarantee (including definitions incorporated therein by reference to another document) shall have the same respective meanings when used in this Agreement (including the Recitals).
 
1.1.2  
In this Agreement, the following words and expressions shall, except where the context otherwise requires have the following respective meanings:
 
" Agreement " means this Reimbursement and Indemnity Agreement, together with all Recitals thereto.
 
" Applicable   Requirements " means applicable law, the rules of any regulatory authority within a competent jurisdiction, the rules of any applicable stock exchange and any applicable confidentiality requirements.
 
3

 
" Bondholder " has the meaning given to that term in the Trust Deed.
 
" Closing Date " means 5 May   2005 or such other date as is agreed between the Issuer and Ambac.
 
" Default Rate " means two per cent. (2%) per annum over the applicable base rate of Citibank N.A., London Branch (or in the absence of such base rate, such base rate as Ambac may determine) from time to time.
 
" Electricity Act " means the Electricity Act 1989 as amended or re-enacted from time to time and all subordinate legislation made pursuant thereto.
 
" Electricity Distribution Licence " means the electricity distribution licence granted or treated as granted to NEDL under section 6(1)(c) of the Electricity Act.
 
" Existing Negative Pledge " means the obligations contained in each of (i) Condition 3 of the terms and conditions of Northern Electric Finance plc's £100,000,000 8.875 per cent. Guaranteed Bonds due 2020 and (ii) Condition 3 of the terms and conditions of Northern Electric Finance plc's £100,000,000 8.625 per cent. Guaranteed Bonds due 2005.
 
" Finance Documents " means the Trust Deed, the Guarantee Fee Letter and this Agreement.
 
" Financial Guarantee " means the financial guarantee dated the date of this Agreement and issued by Ambac in favour of the Trustee in respect of all of the Bonds.
 
" Guarantee Fee Letter " means the fee letter dated 5 May 2005 in respect of the Financial Guarantee.
 
" Indemnified Parties " means Ambac and its officers, directors, shareholders, employees, agents and each person (and their officers, directors, shareholders, employees and agents), if any, who controls Ambac within the meaning of either Section 15 of the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or Section 20 of the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
 
" Issuer Event of Default " has the meaning given to that term in the Conditions.
 
" Obligors " means each of the Issuer and the Guarantor.
 
" Offering Circular " means the offering circular in respect of the Bonds dated 5 May 2005.
 
" OFGEM " means the Gas and Electricity Markets Authority and/or the Office of Gas and Electricity Markets, including their successor office or body, as appropriate.
 
" Participating State " means any member state which has adopted the euro as its lawful currency at the relevant time.
 
" Potential Issuer Event of Default " has the meaning given to that term in the Trust Deed.
 
4

 
" Put Option " has the meaning given to that term in Condition 13 of the Bonds.
 
" Rating Agencies " means, collectively, Moody's Investor Services Inc. (" Moody's ") and Standard & Poor's Rating Services, a division of The McGraw Hill Companies Inc. (" S&P ") or the successors of such entities as are identified by Ambac.
 
" Relevant Indebtedness " means any indebtedness (whether being principal, premium, interest or other amounts) in the form of or represented by notes, bonds, debentures, debenture stock, loan stock or other securities, whether issued for cash or in whole or in part for a consideration other than cash, and which, with the agreement of the person issuing the same, are quoted, listed or ordinarily dealt in on any stock exchange or recognised over-the-counter or other securities market.
 
" Security Interest " means a mortgage, charge, lien, pledge or other security interest.
 
" Subscription Agreement " means the subscription agreement dated 29 April 2005 between inter alios the Issuer, the Guarantor, Ambac and the Royal Bank of Scotland plc (in its capacity as manager of the Bonds).
 
" Subsidiary " means a subsidiary or subsidiary undertaking within the meaning of the Companies Act.
 
" Tax " means any tax, levy, duty or other charge or withholding of a similar nature (including any penalty or interest payable thereon in connection with any failure to pay or any delay in paying the same).
 
" Tax Credit " means a credit against, relief or remission for, or repayment of any Tax.
 
" Tax Deduction " means a deduction or withholding for or on account of Tax from a payment under a Finance Document.
 
" Treaty on European Union " means the Treaty of Rome of 25 March 1957, as amended by the Single European Act 1986 and the Maastricht Treaty (which was signed at Maastricht on 7 February 1992 and came into force on 1 November 1993).
 
" Trustee " means HSBC Trustee (C.I.) Limited or any successor thereto or replacement thereof in accordance with the Trust Deed.
 
" Trust Deed " means the Trust Deed dated on or about the date of this Agreement between the Issuer, the Guarantor, Ambac and the Trustee.
 
 
5

 
1.2   
Construction
 
Any reference in this Agreement to:
 
" continuing ", in relation to a Potential Issuer Event of Default, and/or an Issuer Event of Default, shall be construed as a reference to a Potential Issuer Event of Default, and/or an Issuer Event of Default which has not been remedied within any relevant grace period or waived in accordance with the terms hereof;
 
" indebtedness " shall be construed so as to include any obligation (whether incurred as principal or as surety) for the payment or repayment of money, whether present or future, actual or contingent;
 
a "law" shall be construed as any law (including common or customary law), statute, constitution, decree, judgment, treaty, regulation, directive, bye-law, order or any other legislative measure of any government, supranational, local government, statutory or regulatory body or court;
 
a "member state" shall be construed as a reference to a member state of the European Union;

a " person " shall be construed as a reference to any person, firm, company, corporation, government, state or agency of a state or any association or partnership (whether or not having separate legal personality) of two or more of the foregoing;
 
a "successor" shall be construed so as to include an assignee or successor in title of such party and any person who under the laws of its jurisdiction of incorporation or domicile has assumed the rights and obligations of such party under this Agreement or to which, under such laws, such rights and obligations have been transferred;
 
" VAT " shall be construed as a reference to value added tax including any similar tax which may be imposed in place thereof from time to time; and
 
the " winding-up ", " dissolution " or " administration " of a company or corporation shall be construed so as to include any equivalent or analogous proceedings under the law of the jurisdiction in which such company or corporation is incorporated or any jurisdiction in which such company or corporation carries on business including the seeking of liquidation, winding-up, reorganisation, dissolution, administration, arrangement, adjustment, protection or relief of debtors.
 
1.3  
Currency Symbols
 
1.3.1  
" £ " and " sterling " denote lawful currency of the United Kingdom.
 
1.3.2  
" euro " and " EUR " means the single currency of the European Union as constituted by the Treaty on European Union and "euro unit" means the currency unit of the euro.
 
 
6

 
1.4   
Agreements and Statutes
 
Any reference in this Agreement to:
 
1.4.1  
this Agreement or any other agreement or document shall be construed as a reference to this Agreement or, as the case may be, such other agreement or document as the same may have been, or may from time to time be, amended, varied, novated or supplemented; and
 
1.4.2  
a statute or treaty shall be construed as a reference to such statute or treaty as the same may have been, or may from time to time be, amended or, in the case of a statute, re-enacted.
 
1.5   
Time
 
Any reference in this Agreement to a time of day shall, unless a contrary indication appears, be a reference to London time.
 
1.6   
Trustee
 
For the purposes of this Agreement, the Trustee shall be regarded always as acting for itself and on behalf of the Bondholders only.
 
1.7   
Headings
 
The headings contained in this Agreement are provided for convenience only and shall not affect its construction or interpretation.
 
2.  
REPRESENTATIONS, WARRANTIES AND COVENANTS  
 
2.1  
Representations and warranties
 
2.1.1  
Representations and warranties of the Issuer
 
(a)  
The Issuer represents to Ambac that the representations and warranties made by the Issuer, on its own behalf and contained in Clause 3 of the Subscription Agreement and in any other Finance Documents are true and correct in all respects on the date made.
 
(b)  
The Issuer makes each of the representations and warranties made by it under Clause 3 of the Subscription Agreement and in any other Finance Documents to Ambac on the date of this Agreement and on the Closing Date and on any other date on which such representations and warranties are deemed to be repeated in the relevant Finance Document as if those representations and warranties were set out in this Agreement mutatis mutandis .
 
(c)  
The Issuer represents to Ambac that, except for the Put Option described in Condition 13 of the Bonds, there are no put options, or any other rights in either case having substantially the same effect as the Put Option, in relation to any indebtedness of the Issuer, other than the obligations contained in each of (i) Condition 7 ( Redemption at the Option of Bondholders ) of the terms and conditions of Northern Electric Finance plc's £100,000,000 8.875 per cent. Guaranteed Bonds due 2020 and (ii) Condition 7 ( Redemption at the Option of Bondholders ) of the terms and conditions of Northern Electric Finance plc's £100,000,000 8.625 per cent. Guaranteed Bonds due 2005.
 
 
7

 
(d)  
The Issuer represents to Ambac that there are no negative pledges, or any other restrictions over the granting of any Security Interest upon, or with respect to, any Relevant Indebtedness of the Issuer, other than the Existing Negative Pledge, the Negative Pledge described in Condition 4 of the Bonds, (at any time that the Issuer is a "Significant Subsidiary" as defined in the Indenture referred to below) the obligations contained in Section 1014 ( Limitation on Liens ) of the Indenture dated as of December 15, 1997 between, inter alios, CE Electric UK Funding Company and The Bank of New York as Trustee and relating to, inter alia, CE Electric UK Funding Company's US$237,000,000 6.995% Senior Notes due 2007, and the obligations contained in Condition 5 ( Negative Pledge ) of CE Electric UK Funding Company's £200,000,000 7.25% Guaranteed Bonds due 2022.
 
(e)  
The Issuer represents to Ambac that since its incorporation it has not engaged in any activities other than the activities referred to in, or contemplated by, the Finance Documents and the Offering Circular.
 
(f)  
The Issuer represents to Ambac that it is not a party to any agreement or transaction constituting a currency or interest rate swap, cap or collar arrangement, forward exchange transaction, option, warrant, forward rate agreement, futures contract or other derivative instrument of any kind for the hedging or management of foreign exchange or interest rate risks or any other inflation rate risks or similar derivative instruments.
 
2.1.2  
Representations and Warranties of the Guarantor
 
(a)  
The Guarantor represents to Ambac that the representations and warranties made by the Guarantor, on its own behalf and contained in Clause 3 of the Subscription Agreement and in any other Finance Documents are true and correct in all respects on the date made.
 
(b)  
The Guarantor makes each of the representations and warranties made by it under Clause 3 of the Subscription Agreement and in any other Finance Documents to Ambac on the date of this Agreement and on the Closing Date and on any other date on which such representations and warranties are deemed to be repeated in the relevant Finance Document as if those representations and warranties were set out in this Agreement mutatis mutandis .
 
(c)  
The Guarantor represents to Ambac that, except for the Put Option described in Condition 13 of the Bonds, there are no put options, or any other rights in either case having substantially the same effect as the Put Option, in relation to any indebtedness of the Guarantor, other than the obligations contained in each of (i) Condition 7 ( Redemption at the Option of Bondholders ) of the terms and conditions of Northern Electric Finance plc's £100,000,000 8.875 per cent. Guaranteed Bonds due 2020 and (ii) Condition 7 ( Redemption at the Option of Bondholders ) of the terms and conditions of Northern Electric Finance plc's £100,000,000 8.625 per cent. Guaranteed Bonds due 2005.
 
 
8

 
(d)  
The Guarantor represents to Ambac that there are no negative pledges, or any other restrictions over the granting of any Security Interest upon, or with respect to, any Relevant Indebtedness of the Guarantor, other than the Existing Negative Pledge, the Negative Pledge described in Condition 4 of the Bonds, (at any time that NEDL is a "Significant Subsidiary" as defined in the Indenture referred to below) the obligations contained in Section 1014 ( Limitation on Liens ) of the Indenture dated as of December 15, 1997 between, inter alios, CE Electric UK Funding Company and The Bank of New York as Trustee and relating to, inter alia, CE Electric UK Funding Company's US$237,000,000 6.995% Senior Notes due 2007, and the obligations contained in Condition 5 ( Negative Pledge ) of CE Electric UK Funding Company's £200,000,000 7.25% Guaranteed Bonds due 2022.
 
2.2   
Covenants
 
2.2.1   
Covenants of the Issuer
 
The Issuer agrees for the benefit of Ambac as follows:
 
(a)  
it will comply with the undertakings and covenants set out in the Finance Documents to which it is a party including without limitation in Clause 4 of the Subscription Agreement as if such covenants were incorporated mutatis mutandis into this Agreement;
 
(b)  
it will forthwith notify Ambac of anything which has or may reasonably be expected to have rendered untrue or incorrect in any respect any of the representations and warranties in Clause 2.1 of this Agreement and which is material in the context of the issue and offering of the Bonds and of the transactions contemplated by the Finance Documents or the issue of the Financial Guarantee;
 
(c)  
it will provide Ambac with any information, notices, including, inter alia , management accounts (in such form as they are produced by the Issuer), audited financial statements and other financial information promptly on request after the same become available;
 
(d)  
subject to Applicable Requirements, that the duties and obligations of the Issuer herein shall continue in full force and effect until all of the obligations of all Obligors under the Finance Documents have been fully and irrevocably discharged, notwithstanding payment by the Issuer or the Guarantor of all amounts due in respect of the Bonds;
 
 
9

 
(e)  
that, prior to the Trustee presenting a Notice of Demand to Ambac, the Issuer will have utilised all other financial resources available to it for the purposes of paying interest and/or principal and/or any other sums due to the Bondholders of the relevant Bonds;
 
(f)  
subject to Applicable Requirements, it will, upon reasonable prior notice by Ambac make appropriate management personnel available for a meeting (whether conducted over the telephone or otherwise) with Ambac at a mutually acceptable time and place to discuss the Issuer's operational and financial performance over the preceding financial year and its financial plans for the next three years;
 
(g)  
subject to Applicable Requirements, it will, as soon as reasonably practicable after request by Ambac, provide appropriate personnel for a meeting (whether conducted over the telephone or otherwise) with Ambac at a mutually acceptable time and place if there occurs a significant change in the financial position of the Issuer or any Subsidiary which is material to the Issuer as shown in its most recent financial statements or in any report produced by OFGEM concerning the Issuer or any of its Subsidiaries;
 
(h)  
in consideration for Ambac's issuance of the Financial Guarantee, it will, on the terms and subject to the conditions of this Agreement:
 
(i)  
pay or procure the payment, from time to time, of any Guarantee Fees due and payable to Ambac in accordance with the Guarantee Fee Letter and this Agreement;
 
(ii)  
promptly pay to Ambac, all and any sums and fees due and payable to Ambac under the Finance Documents including, for the avoidance of doubt, (if applicable) the amount equal to the loss, liability or cost which Ambac determines will be or has been (directly or indirectly) suffered for or on account of any Tax by Ambac (except any Tax by reference to the net income received or receivable by Ambac) or in respect of, or applicable to, the payment of such sums and fees, as provided for in the Finance Documents;
 
(iii)  
indemnify and reimburse Ambac on the terms of this Agreement;
 
(i)  
it will not carry on or engage in any business or activity other than acting as a finance vehicle for the purposes of borrowing money or raising Financial Indebtedness (as defined in the terms and conditions at the Bonds) and/or lending to affiliated companies and/or holding cash deposits or other investment; and
 
(j)  
it will not enter into any agreement or transaction constituting a currency or interest rate swap, cap or collar arrangement, forward exchange transaction, option, warrant, forward rate agreement, futures contract or other derivative instrument of any kind for the hedging or management of foreign exchange or interest rate risks or any other inflation rate risks or similar derivative instruments.
 
 
10

 
2.2.2   
Covenants of the Guarantor
 
The Guarantor agrees for the benefit of Ambac as follows:
 
(a)  
it will comply with the undertakings and covenants set out in the Finance Documents to which it is a party including without limitation in Clause 4 of the Subscription Agreement as if such covenants were incorporated mutatis mutandis into this Agreement;
 
(b)  
it will forthwith notify Ambac of anything of which it becomes aware and which has or may reasonably be expected to have rendered untrue or incorrect in any respect any of the representations and warranties in Clause 2.1 of this Agreement and which is material in the context of the issue and offering of the Bonds and of the transactions contemplated by the Finance Documents or the issue of the Financial Guarantee;
 
(c)  
it will provide Ambac with any information, notices, including, inter alia , management accounts (in such form as they are produced by the Guarantor), audited financial statements and other financial information promptly on request after the same become available;
 
(d)  
it will provide Ambac with copies of all reports relating to violations of the Electricity Distribution Licence received by it or any of its Subsidiaries from OFGEM, as soon as reasonably practicable after delivery or receipt thereof;
 
(e)  
subject to Applicable Requirements, it will, upon reasonable prior notice by Ambac make appropriate management personnel available for a meeting (whether conducted over the telephone or otherwise) with Ambac at a mutually acceptable time and place to discuss the Guarantor's operational and financial performance over the preceding financial year and its financial plans for the next three years;
 
(f)  
subject to Applicable Requirements, it will, as soon as reasonably practicable after request by Ambac, provide appropriate personnel for a meeting (whether conducted over the telephone or otherwise) with Ambac at a mutually acceptable time and place if there occurs a significant change in the financial position of the Guarantor or any Subsidiary which is material to the Guarantor as shown in its most recent financial statements or in any report produced by OFGEM concerning the Guarantor or any of its Subsidiaries;
 
(g)  
subject to Applicable Requirements, that the duties and obligations of the Guarantor herein shall continue in full force and effect until all of the obligations of all the Obligors under the Finance Documents have been fully and irrevocably discharged, notwithstanding payment by any Obligor of all amounts due in respect of the Bonds; and
 
 
11

 
(h)  
in consideration for Ambac's issuance of the Financial Guarantee, it irrevocably and unconditionally:
 
(i)  
guarantees to Ambac the due and punctual observance and performance by the Issuer of all its obligations under or pursuant to the Finance Documents and agrees to pay to Ambac from time to time on demand all sums of money which the Issuer is at any time liable to pay to Ambac under or pursuant to the Finance Documents and which have become due and payable but have not been paid at the time such demand is made; and
 
(ii)  
agrees as a primary obligation to indemnify Ambac from time to time on demand from and against any loss incurred by Ambac as a result of any of the obligations of the Issuer under or pursuant to the Finance Documents being or becoming void, voidable, unenforceable or ineffective as against the Issuer for any reason whatsoever, whether or not known to Ambac, the amount of such loss being the amount which Ambac would otherwise have been entitled to recover from the Issuer.
 
3.  
ISSUE OF THE FINANCIAL GUARANTEE    
 
The obligation of Ambac to issue the Financial Guarantee on the Closing Date is subject to:
 
3.1  
satisfaction or waiver by Ambac (at its sole discretion) of all the conditions precedent set out in the Subscription Agreement;
 
3.2  
confirmation from the Lead Manager on behalf of the Managers (as defined in the Subscription Agreement) that the conditions precedent set out in Clause 8.3 of the Subscription Agreement have been satisfied, without taking into account any waiver by the Lead Manager of any such condition unless such waiver has been approved by Ambac prior to such waiver being given;
 
3.3  
no Potential Issuer Event of Default or Issuer Event of Default shall have occurred;
 
3.4  
there having been no material adverse change (or event which is likely to result in a material adverse change) in the international or domestic, syndicated debt, bank or capital markets which may prejudice the offering or distribution of any of the Bonds since 29 April 2005; and
 
3.5  
no statute, rule, regulation or order having been executed, entered or deemed applicable by any government or governmental or administrative agency or court having any relevant jurisdiction that would make the transactions contemplated by any of the Finance Documents and the Financial Guarantee illegal or otherwise prevent the consummation thereof.
 
 
12

 
4.   
SUBROGATION  
 
4.1  
The Issuer agrees that Ambac shall be subrogated to the rights of the Bondholders to the extent of any payment made by Ambac under the Financial Guarantee.
 
4.2  
The Issuer agrees that it shall not, by reason of any payment by Ambac under the Financial Guarantee be discharged from its obligations under this Agreement.
 
4.3  
The Issuer must take such actions as, in the sole judgment of Ambac, are necessary to evidence such subrogation and to ensure that Ambac receives any moneys paid or payable in respect of the Bonds under the Finance Documents.
 
5.  
REIMBURSEMENT OBLIGATION
 
5.1  
Reimbursement
 
5.1.1  
The Issuer must reimburse Ambac for any payment made by Ambac under the Financial Guarantee on the day on which Ambac makes a payment under the Financial Guarantee.
 
5.1.2  
If the Issuer is required to reimburse Ambac pursuant to Clause 5.1.1, the Issuer must reimburse Ambac:
 
(a)  
in accordance with Clause 14.2 ( Payments under this Agreement );
 
(b)  
in an amount equal to the aggregate of:
 
(i)  
the amount paid by Ambac pursuant to the Financial Guarantee on that date;
 
(ii)  
all amounts previously paid by Ambac in connection with the Bonds which remain outstanding from the Issuer to Ambac; and
 
(iii)  
interest on any and all amounts which remain outstanding from the Issuer to Ambac (to the extent permitted by law, if in respect of any unreimbursed amounts representing interest) from the date the amounts became due until the date on which the amounts are paid in full, at a rate of interest equal to the Default Rate.
 
5.2   
Costs and Expenses
 
The Issuer must pay to Ambac the amount of all reasonable out-of-pocket costs and expenses properly incurred by it (including, but not limited to, legal fees and expenses, accountants' fees and expenses, and all amounts which Ambac may reasonably require from time to time to compensate it for its internal management and administrative costs and expenses) and applicable VAT thereon in connection with:
 
5.2.1  
any accounts established to facilitate payments under the Financial Guarantee;
 
5.2.2  
the enforcement or exercise of, or preservation of any rights under, any Finance Document; and
 
 
13

 
5.2.3  
any amendment, waiver, consent or other action with respect to, under or pursuant to the Finance Documents, whether or not such amendment, waiver, consent or other action is executed or completed.
 
 
6.   
INDEMNITY
 
6.1  
Right of Indemnification
 
Subject as provided in Clause 6.5, the Issuer undertakes to indemnify on demand each of the Indemnified Parties against any loss, liability, costs, claims, damages, expenses or demands (or actions in respect thereof) which any of them may reasonably incur or which may be made against any of them and all amounts which Ambac may require from time to time to compensate it for its internal management and administrative costs and expenses as a consequence of:
 
6.1.1  
any representation or warranty of the Issuer and/or the Guarantor under Clause 2.1 ( Representations and Warranties ) not being true or correct when given;  
 
6.1.2  
a breach by the Issuer and/or the Guarantor of the covenants set out in Clause 2.2 ( Covenants );
 
6.1.3  
the occurrence of any Potential Issuer Event of Default or Issuer Event of Default;
 
6.1.4  
any actual or alleged omission or action (other than of or by Ambac) in connection with the offering, issue, sale, remarketing or delivery of the Bonds;
 
6.1.5  
any actual or alleged untrue statement in the Offering Circular or any omission to state a material fact required to be stated in the Offering Circular which is the responsibility of the Issuer or the Guarantor;
 
6.1.6  
any such Indemnified Party being obliged to indemnify, for whatever reason, the Trustee or any agent, delegate or contractor of the Trustee pursuant to and in accordance with the terms of the Finance Documents; or
 
6.1.7  
investigating any event or circumstance which Ambac in good faith believes might be or become one of those matters referred to in paragraphs 6.1.1 to 6.1.6 or in disputing or defending any claim in relation thereto.
 
6.2   
Conduct of Proceedings
 
6.2.1  
If any action or proceeding is brought against any of the Indemnified Parties in respect of which indemnity may be sought under Clause 6.1 ( Right of Indemnification ) of this Agreement from the Issuer or the Guarantor, the Indemnified Party must promptly notify the Issuer and the Guarantor of the claim in writing.
 
6.2.2  
Subject to Clause 6.2.4 below and no Potential Issuer Event of Default, or Issuer Event of Default having occurred, the Issuer will have the option to assume the defence of any action or proceeding brought against an Indemnified Party, with legal advisers satisfactory to the Indemnified Party (acting reasonably) so long as such Indemnified Party is satisfied (acting reasonably) that any such action by the Issuer shall not be prejudicial to such Indemnified Party.
 
 
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6.2.3  
The Issuer and/or Guarantor shall not, without the prior written consent of the Indemnified Party, settle or compromise, or consent to the entry of judgment with respect to, any action or proceeding to which this Clause 6.2 relates unless such settlement, compromise or consent includes an unconditional release of each Indemnified Party from all liability arising out of the matters which are the subject to such action or proceeding.
 
6.2.4  
If the named parties to any action or proceeding include both the Indemnified Party and the Issuer (or either of them) and the Indemnified Party has been advised by counsel that there may be one or more legal defences available to it which are different from or additional to those available to the Issuer, the Issuer shall not have the right to assume the defence of that action or proceeding on behalf of such Indemnified Party and the Indemnified Party shall have the right to employ separate counsel at the cost of the Issuer and to participate in the defence of any action or proceeding brought against it.
 
6.2.5  
The Issuer undertakes to indemnify the Indemnified Parties against any loss or liability which any of them incur as a consequence of the settlement of any action or proceeding effected:
 
(a)  
with the prior written consent of the Issuer (which consent must not be unreasonably withheld);
 
(b)  
in circumstances where the Issuer has been given notice of the action or proceeding and has declined the option to defend such action or proceeding under Clause 6.2.2 above; or
 
(c)  
if the circumstances set out in Clause 6.2.4 above exist and the Issuer has been given notice of the proceedings and of the advice of counsel regarding the availability of separate defences (as described at Clause 6.2.4 above).
 
6.3   
Other Indemnifications
 
Ambac shall not be obliged to first pursue any recovery under any other indemnity or reimbursement obligation before seeking recovery under the indemnification and reimbursement obligation of the Issuer and/or the guarantee and indemnification obligation of the Guarantor under this Agreement.
 
6.4   
Payments
 
Any amount that becomes payable by the Issuer under Clause 6.1 ( Right of Indemnification) shall be immediately due and payable on demand.
 
6.5  
Limitation on Indemnification
 
Neither the Issuer nor the Guarantor shall be under any obligation to indemnify any Indemnified Party for any liability, damages, demands, claims, cost, loss, or expense (or action in respect thereof) which arises as a result of the Indemnified Party's own fraud, negligence or wilful default. No amount shall be payable by the Issuer or the Guarantor in respect of the indemnity in Clause 6.1 in respect of any loss, liability, costs, claims, damages, expenses or demands (or actions in respect thereof) in respect of which the Issuer and/or the Guarantor has indemnified the relevant Indemnified Party pursuant to any other Finance Document and has satisfied its obligations in respect of such indemnity.
 
 
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6.6   
Continuing Indemnity
 
This shall be a continuing indemnity and shall:
 
6.6.1  
extend to the ultimate balance of the sums and liabilities which are or may become owing to an Indemnified Party under this Agreement; and
 
6.6.2  
continue in force notwithstanding any intermediate payment in whole or in part of the sums and liabilities which are or may become owing to Ambac under this Agreement.
 
7.   
GUARANTEE BY THE GUARANTOR
 
7.1  
The obligations of the Guarantor contained in Clause 2.2.2(h) shall be in addition to and independent of every other security which Ambac may at any time hold in respect of any of the Issuer's obligations under the Finance Documents.
 
7.2  
Any settlement or discharge given by Ambac to the Guarantor in respect of the Guarantor’s obligations under this Agreement or any other agreement reached between Ambac and the Guarantor in relation to it shall be, and be deemed always to have been, void if any act on the faith of which Ambac gave the Guarantor that settlement or discharge or entered into that agreement is subsequently avoided by or in pursuance of any provision of law.
 
7.3  
Ambac shall not be obliged before exercising any of the rights, powers or remedies conferred upon it in respect of the guarantees granted by the Guarantor under this Agreement or by law:
 
7.3.1  
to make any demand of the Issuer;
 
7.3.2  
to take any action or obtain judgment in any court against the Issuer;
 
7.3.3  
to make or file any claim or proof in a winding-up or dissolution of the Issuer; or
 
7.3.4  
to enforce or seek to enforce any security taken in respect of any of the obligations of the Issuer under this Agreement or any other Finance Document.
 
7.4  
The Guarantor agrees that, so long as the Issuer is under any actual or contingent payment obligations under this Agreement or any other Finance Document, the Guarantor shall not exercise any rights which it may at any time have by reason of performance by it of its obligations under this Agreement:
 
 
16

 
7.4.1  
to be indemnified by the Issuer or to receive any collateral from the Issuer; and/or
 
7.4.2  
to claim any contribution from any other guarantor of the Issuer's obligations under this Agreement or any other Finance Document; and/or
 
7.4.3  
to take the benefit (in whole or in part and whether by way of subrogation or otherwise) of any rights of Ambac under this Agreement or any other Finance Document or of any other security taken pursuant to, or in connection with, this Agreement by Ambac.
 
7.5  
Continuing Obligations
 
The obligations of the Guarantor contained in this Agreement shall constitute and be continuing obligations notwithstanding any settlement of account or other matter or thing whatsoever, and shall not be considered satisfied by any intermediate payment or satisfaction of all or any of the obligations of the Issuer under this Agreement and/or any other Finance Document and shall continue in full force and effect until final payment in full of all amounts owing by the Issuer under this Agreement and/or any other Finance Document and total satisfaction of all the Issuer's actual and contingent obligations under this Agreement and/or any other Finance Document.
 
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8.  
VALUE ADDED TAX
 
8.1   
VAT Chargeable
 
All amounts expressed to be payable under a Finance Document by each Obligor to Ambac shall be deemed to be exclusive of any VAT. If VAT is chargeable on any supply made by any Obligor to Ambac in connection with a Finance Document, the relevant Obligor shall pay to Ambac (in addition to and at the same time as paying the consideration), an amount equal to the amount of the VAT.
 
8.2   
Reimbursement
 
Where a Finance Document requires an Obligor to reimburse and/or indemnify Ambac for any losses, costs or expenses (including legal fees), each Obligor shall also, on demand, pay and indemnify Ambac against any irrecoverable VAT incurred by Ambac in respect of such losses, costs or expenses.
 
9.  
TERM OF THIS AGREEMENT
 
9.1  
Subject to Clause 9.2 below, this Agreement shall take effect on the Closing Date and shall terminate on the date which is the later of:
 
9.1.1  
the date on which Ambac is no longer subject to a claim (including any claim arising from a payment made by the Issuer being declared a preference) under the Financial Guarantee; and
 
9.1.2  
the date on which all amounts payable to Ambac by the Issuer under this Agreement and all amounts (actually or contingently) payable under the Bonds have been paid in full.
 
9.2  
The provisions of Clauses 1 ( Definitions and Interpretation ), 4 ( Subrogation ), 5 ( Reimbursement Obligation ), 6 ( Indemnity ), 8 ( Value Added Tax ) and this Clause 9 shall survive any termination of this Agreement.
 
10.  
FURTHER ASSURANCES
 
The Obligors shall, so far as permitted by applicable law and regulatory requirements, execute within a reasonable time of a request by Ambac all such further documents and do all such further acts and things as may, in the reasonable opinion of Ambac, be necessary at any time to give effect to the provisions or to facilitate the performance of this Agreement and any other Finance Document to which each Obligor is a party.
 
11.   
OBLIGATIONS ABSOLUTE
 
Neither the obligations of the Obligors under this Agreement nor the rights, powers and remedies conferred on Ambac in respect of the Obligors by this Agreement or by law shall be discharged, impaired or otherwise affected by:
 
11.1  
the winding-up, dissolution, administration or re-organisation of any Obligor or any other person or any change in its status, control or ownership;
 
 
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11.2  
any of the obligations of any Obligor under any of the Finance Documents being or becoming illegal, invalid, unenforceable or ineffective in any respect;
 
11.3  
any time or other indulgence being granted to any Obligor in respect of its respective obligations under any of the Finance Documents;
 
11.4  
any amendment to, or any variation, waiver, exchange or release of, any obligation of any Obligor under any of the Finance Documents;
 
11.5  
the existence of any claim, set-off or any other right that any Obligor (as the case may be) may have against Ambac;
 
11.6  
any other circumstances, other than payment in full, that might otherwise constitute a defence available to, or discharge of, any Obligor in respect of the Finance Documents;
 
11.7  
any document presented in connection with the Financial Guarantee proving to be forged or fraudulent (other than forgery or fraud caused by Ambac), invalid or insufficient in any respect or any statement in any document being untrue or inaccurate in any respect; and
 
11.8  
any payment by Ambac under the Financial Guarantee against presentation of a certificate or other document that does not strictly comply with the terms of the Financial Guarantee.
 
12.  
ASSIGNMENT  
 
Neither of the Obligors may assign any of their rights or transfer any of their rights or obligations under this Agreement without the prior written consent of Ambac.
 
13.   
LIABILITY OF AMBAC
 
Neither Ambac nor any of its officers, directors or employees shall be liable or responsible for:
 
13.1  
the use of the Financial Guarantee by the Trustee;
 
13.2  
any acts or omissions of the Trustee in connection with the use of the Financial Guarantee by the Trustee; or
 
13.3  
the validity of documents delivered to Ambac in connection with any claim under the Financial Guarantee, or of any signatures thereon, even if such documents or signatures should in fact prove to be in any or all respects invalid, insufficient or (unless relevant officers of Ambac shall have actual knowledge thereof) fraudulent or forged.
 
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14.   
PAYMENT PROCEDURE
 
14.1  
Payments by Ambac
 
Ambac may rely on any documents delivered to it in connection with any claim under the Financial Guarantee which appear on their face to be in order, without responsibility for further investigation.
 
14.2  
Payments under this Agreement
 
Each Obligor must make all payments to be made under this Agreement:
 
14.2.1  
without set-off or counterclaim;
 
14.2.2  
on the date on which such payment becomes due and payable (and in respect of any payment made by Ambac under the Financial Guarantee, the date on which Ambac makes such payment);
 
14.2.3  
in the currency in which the relevant Bonds are denominated (in relation to any payments relating to such Bonds) or in the currency in which the amounts are incurred by Ambac (in relation to costs, fees, liabilities and other indemnities);
 
14.2.4  
in immediately available funds to the account number specified in the Guarantee Fee Letter (or to such other account as Ambac may direct by written notice to the Obligors); and
 
14.2.5  
without any Tax Deduction, unless a Tax Deduction is required by law (in which case, the amount of the payment due from the Obligors must be increased to an amount which (after making the Tax Deduction) leaves an amount equal to the payment which would have been due if no Tax Deduction had been required).
 
14.3   
Interest on late payments
 
All payments to be made by the Obligors under this Agreement shall bear interest at the Default Rate from the date due to (and including) the date paid (both before and after any judgment or other order of a court of competent jurisdiction).
 
14.4   
Determination of amount due
 
Any certification or determination by Ambac of a rate or amount made pursuant to the terms of this Agreement will be, in the absence of manifest error, conclusive evidence of the matters to which it relates.
 
14.5   
Tax Credit
 
If any Obligor makes a Tax Deduction pursuant to and in accordance with Clause 14.2.5 and Ambac determines (in its absolute discretion) that:
 
14.5.1  
a Tax Credit is attributable to that tax payment; and
 
14.5.2  
Ambac has obtained, utilised and retained that Tax Credit,
 
 
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Ambac shall pay an amount to such Obligor which Ambac determines (acting reasonably and in good faith) will leave it (after that payment) in the same after-tax position as it would have been in had such Tax Deduction not been made by such Obligor.
 
14.6  
Tax Liability
 
Nothing in this Agreement shall interfere with the right of Ambac to arrange its tax affairs in whatever manner it thinks fit and, in particular, Ambac shall be under no obligation to claim credit, relief, remission, repayment or other benefit from or against its tax liability in respect of the amount of such deduction in priority to any other similar claims, reliefs, credits or deductions available to it, nor shall Ambac be under any obligation to disclose to the Issuer any information in relation to Ambac's tax affairs.
 
15.  
REMEDIES AND WAIVERS
 
15.1   
The rights of Ambac under this Agreement:
 
15.1.1  
may be exercised as often as is necessary;
 
15.1.2  
are cumulative and not exclusive of its rights under the general law; and
 
15.1.3  
are in addition to any rights and remedies provided for in the Finance Documents; and
 
15.1.4  
may be waived only in writing.
 
15.2  
Any delay in exercising or non-exercise by Ambac of any right of Ambac under this Agreement is not a waiver of that right.
 
15.3  
Ambac shall have the right to exercise in its complete discretion the waiver of any default under this Agreement by written notice setting forth the terms, conditions and extent of such waiver. Unless such notice expressly provides to the contrary, any waiver so granted shall extend only to the specific event or occurrence which gave rise to the Default so waived and not to any other similar event or occurrence which occurs subsequent to the date of such waiver.
 
16.  
AMENDMENT, PARTIAL INVALIDITY AND COUNTERPARTS
 
16.1  
Amendment
 
This Agreement may be amended, modified or terminated only by written instrument or written instruments signed by the parties hereto.
 
16.2   
Partial Invalidity
 
If, at any time, any provision hereof is or becomes illegal, invalid or unenforceable in any respect under the law of any jurisdiction, neither the legality, validity or enforceability of the remaining provisions hereof nor the legality, validity or enforceability of such provision under the law of any other jurisdiction shall in any way be affected or impaired thereby. The parties further agree that the holding by any court of competent jurisdiction that any remedy pursued by any party hereto is unavailable or unenforceable shall not affect in any way the ability of such party to pursue any other remedy available to it.
 
 
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16.3  
Counterparts
 
This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts and all such counterparts shall constitute one and the same instrument.
 
17.  
NOTICES
 
17.1  
Communications in Writing
 
Each communication to be made hereunder shall be made in writing and, unless otherwise stated, shall be made by facsimile or letter delivered by registered post or courier as follows:-
 
(i)  
To Ambac:
 
Ambac Assurance UK Limited
Hasilwood House
60 Bishopsgate
London EC2N 4BE
Fax:   +44 20 7786 4343
Tel:    +44 20 7786 4300
Attention:   Surveillance


(ii)  
To the Issuer:
 
Northern Electric Finance plc
Lloyd's Court
78 Grey Street
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE1 6AF

Fax:   +44 191 223 5742
Attention:   Finance Director
 
(iii)  
To the Guarantor:
 
Northern Electric Distribution Limited
Lloyd's Court
78 Grey Street
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE1 6AF

Fax:   +44 191 223 5742
Attention:   Finance Director
 
22


17.2   
Delivery
 
Any communication or document to be made or delivered by one person to another pursuant to this Agreement shall (unless the intended recipient has by ten days' written notice to the sender specified another address) be made or delivered to that other person at the address identified in this Clause 17 ( Notices ) and shall be deemed to have been made or delivered:
 
17.2.1  
(in the case of any communication made by letter) when delivered to that address; or
 
17.2.2  
(in the case of any communication by fax) when transmission of such fax communication has been received in legible form and receipt has been confirmed, and communication verified, by telephone (save for any communications to Ambac, where such communication shall be deemed to be received on the day it is actually received and then only if expressly marked for the attention of the officer identified with the signature of Ambac below, or such other officer as Ambac shall from time to time specify for this purpose) provided that in either case if such communication or document would otherwise be deemed to have been received or actually received on a day which is not a business day or, for the avoidance of doubt, falls outside business hours, it shall be deemed to have been received on the next subsequent business day.
 
17.3   
English Language
 
Each communication and document made or delivered by one party to another pursuant to this Agreement shall be in the English language.
 
18.  
CONTRACTS (RIGHTS OF THIRD PARTIES) ACT 1999
 
A person who is not a party to this Agreement has no right under the Contracts (Rights of Third Parties) Act 1999 to enforce any term of this Agreement.
 
19.   
ECONOMIC AND MONETARY UNION
 
If, during the duration of this Agreement, the United Kingdom becomes a Participating Member State and, as a result, the Bank of England recognises the euro as the lawful currency of the United Kingdom, then:
 
19.1.1  
unless prohibited by law, Ambac may designate the currency or currency unit in which any obligations arising under this Agreement otherwise payable in Sterling are to be denominated or payable;
 
19.1.2  
unless prohibited by law, any translation from one currency or currency unit to another shall be made at the official rate of exchange recognised by the Bank of England for conversion, rounded up or down by Ambac; and
 
19.1.3  
this Agreement shall be subject to such reasonable changes of construction as Ambac may specify from time to time to be appropriate to reflect (a) the adoption of the euro in the United Kingdom and (b) any relevant market practices relating to the euro.
 
 
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20.  
CONFIDENTIALITY
 
20.1   
Confidential Information
 
Except as permitted or required under this Agreement, all data and information (including the terms of this Agreement) obtained or received from any party hereto under this Agreement shall be treated as confidential for the term of this Agreement and shall not be disclosed to any third party without the prior written consent of the other parties.
 
20.2   
Permitted Disclosure
 
Any party hereto may, without the prior approval of the other parties, disclose such data and information where:
 
20.2.1  
such data and information has come into the public domain other than by any breach of this Agreement;
 
20.2.2  
such disclosure is made to any third party with whom Ambac has dealings (including, any affiliate of Ambac); or
 
20.2.3  
such data and information is made available to professional advisors of Ambac the Issuer or the Guarantor for the purpose of performing their duties;
 
20.2.4  
such disclosure is required by any applicable law or court order.
 
21.  
LAW AND JURISDICTION
 
21.1  
English Law
 
This Agreement shall be governed by, and shall be construed in accordance with, the laws of England and Wales.
 
21.2   
English Courts
 
Each party irrevocably agrees that any suit, legal action or proceedings (together in this Clause 21 referred to as " Proceedings ") in connection with this Agreement may be brought in the courts of England.
 
 
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21.3   
Consent to Enforcement
 
Each of the parties hereto hereby consents generally in respect of any Proceedings to the giving of any relief or the issue of any process in connection with such Proceedings including the making, enforcement or execution against any property whatsoever (irrespective of its use or intended use) of any order or judgment which may be made or given in such Proceedings.
 
21.4   
Waiver of Immunity
 
To the extent that each Obligor may in any jurisdiction claim for itself or its assets immunity from suit, execution, attachment (whether in aid of execution, before judgment or otherwise) or other legal process and to the extent that in any such jurisdiction there may be attributed to itself or its assets such immunity (whether or not claimed), each Obligor hereby irrevocably agrees not to claim and hereby irrevocably waives such immunity to the full extent permitted by the laws of such jurisdiction.
 
IN WITNESS whereof this Agreement has been executed as a deed by the parties hereto and is intended to be and is hereby delivered on the date first above written.
 

 
EXECUTED as a deed by
 
NORTHERN ELECTRIC FINANCE plc
acting by

     
/s/ Ken Linge
Ken Linge
 
/s/ John Elliott
John Elliott
 
 
EXECUTED as a deed by
 
NORTHERN ELECTRIC DISTRIBUTION Ltd.
acting by

/s/ Ken Linge
Ken Linge
 
/s/ John Elliott
John Elliott
 

 


25


EXECUTED as a deed by
AMBAC ASSURANCE UK LIMITED

/s/ Thomas Jacquot
Signature of director
 
Thomas Jacquot
Name of director
 

 

 

 
26


 

 
 
 

EXHIBIT 99.3
 
 
C  L  I  F  F  O  R  D LIMITED LIABILITY PARTNERSHIP 
C  H  A  N  C  E
 
  EXECUTION COPY  
 
YORKSHIRE ELECTRICITY DISTRIBUTION PLC
 
  £200,000,000
 
5.125 per cent. Bonds due 2035
 
 
 
  unconditionally and irrevocably guaranteed as to scheduled payments of principal and interest
pursuant to a Financial Guarantee issued by Ambac Assurance UK Limited
 

 
TRUST DEED
 

 

 





CONTENTS
     
Clause
 
Page
     
1.
Interpretation
1
2.
Amount of the Bonds and covenant to pay
6
3.
Form and issue of the Bonds
9
4.
Stamp duties and taxes
11
5.
The Trust Deed, the Bonds and the Financial Guarantee
11
6.
Application of moneys received by the Trustee
12
7.
Ambac and the Financial Guarantee
13
8.
Covenants by the Issuer
14
9.
Covenants by Ambac
18
10.
Covenants by the Issuer in favour of Ambac
20
11.
Remuneration and Indemnification of the Trustee
22
12.
Provisions supplemental to the Trustee Act 1925
24
13.
Trustee liable for negligence
28
14.
Waiver
28
15.
Trustee not precluded from entering into contracts
29
16.
Modification and substitution
29
17.
Appointment retirement and removal of the Trustee
31
18.
Coupons
32
19.
Controlling Party
33
20.
Currency indemnity
33
21.
Communications
34
22.
Governing Law
35
23.
Counterparts
35
SCHEDULE 1
FORM OF TEMPORARY GLOBAL BOND
36
SCHEDULE 2
FORM OF PERMANENT GLOBAL BOND
45
SCHEDULE 3
FORM OF DEFINITIVE BOND
52
SCHEDULE 4
TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE BONDS
57
SCHEDULE 5
PROVISIONS FOR MEETINGS OF BONDHOLDERS
87
SCHEDULE 6
EXCLUDED RIGHTS OF THE TRUSTEE
94
 



 
THIS TRUST DEED is made on 5 May 2005
 
BETWEEN
 
(1)  
YORKSHIRE ELECTRICITY DISTRIBUTION PLC (the " Issuer "), a public company incorporated in England and Wales with limited liability under registered number 04112320;
 
(2)  
AMBAC ASSURANCE UK LIMITED (" Ambac "), a company incorporated in England and Wales with limited liability under registered number 3248674; and
 
(3)  
HSBC TRUSTEE (C.I.) LIMITED (the " Trustee ", which expression shall, where the content so admits, include all persons for the time being the trustee or trustees of this Trust Deed (as defined below)).
 
WHEREAS
 
(A)  
The Issuer has authorised the issue of £200,000,000 5.125 per cent. Bonds due 2035 to be constituted by this Trust Deed.
 
(B)  
The Trustee has agreed to act as trustee of this Trust Deed on the following terms and conditions.
 
(C)  
Pursuant to a Financial Guarantee dated the date hereof issued by Ambac to the Trustee (the " Financial Guarantee "), Ambac unconditionally and irrevocably guarantees the scheduled payment of principal of and interest on such Bonds and certain additional amounts.
 
NOW THIS DEED WITNESSES AND IT IS HEREBY DECLARED as   follows:
 
1.            
INTERPRETATION
 
1.1           
Definitions
The following expressions shall have the following meanings:
 
" Affiliate " means, in relation to any Person, any Holding Company of that Person or a Person of which that Holding Company has direct or indirect control or owns directly or indirectly more than 50 per cent. of the share capital or similar rights of ownership or control of another Person;
 
" Authorised Signatory " means:
 
(a)   
in relation to the Issuer, a director of the Issuer or any person in respect of whom the Issuer has supplied to the Trustee and Ambac a copy, certified by a director or the secretary of the Issuer, to be a true copy and in full force and effect, of a resolution or resolutions of the board of directors of the Issuer, authorising such person to sign on behalf of the Issuer all such certificates and other documents as are referred to therein, together with a certified specimen signature of such person, and in respect of whom the Trustee and Ambac have not received written notification from the Issuer, that such person has ceased to be so authorised; and
 
 
-1-

 
(b)   
in relation to Ambac, a director of Ambac or any person in respect of whom Ambac has supplied to the Trustee a copy, certified by a director or the secretary of Ambac to be a true copy and in full force and effect, of a resolution or resolutions of the board of directors of Ambac authorising such person to sign on behalf of Ambac all such certificates and other documents as are referred to therein, together with a certified specimen signature of such person, and in respect of whom the Trustee has not received written notification from Ambac that such person has ceased to be so authorised;
 
" Bondholder " and (in relation to a Bond) " holder " means the bearer of a Bond;
 
" Bonds " means the £200,000,000 5.125 per cent. Bonds due 2035 constituted by this Trust Deed and for the time being outstanding or, as the context may require, a specific number of them and includes the Temporary Global Bond (or any part thereof), the Permanent Global Bond (or any part thereof) and the Definitive Bonds (or any of them), including any replacement Definitive Bonds issued pursuant to Condition 16 ( Replacement of Bonds and Coupons );
 
" Clearstream, Luxembourg " means Clearstream Banking, société anonyme , Luxembourg;
 
" Conditions " means the terms and conditions set out in Schedule 4 ( Terms and Conditions of the Bonds ) as modified, with respect to any Bonds represented by a Global Bond, by the provisions of such Global Bond and as from time to time modified in accordance with this Trust Deed and any reference to a particularly numbered Condition shall be construed accordingly;
 
" Couponholder " and (in relation to a Coupon) " holder " means the bearer of a Coupon;
 
" Coupons " means the bearer interest coupons appertaining to the Definitive Bonds in or substantially in the form set out in Schedule 3 ( Form of Definitive Bond ), or as the context may require, a specific number of them and includes any replacement Coupons issued pursuant to Condition 16 ( Replacement of Bonds and Coupons );
 
" Definitive Bonds " means the Bonds in definitive form to be issued pursuant to, and in the circumstances specified in, Clause 3.3 ( Exchange for Definitive Bonds ), in or substantially in the form set out in Schedule 3 ( Form of Definitive Bond ), and includes any replacements therefor issued pursuant to Condition 16 ( Replacement of Bonds and Coupons );
 
" Euroclear " means Euroclear Bank S.A./N.V., as operator of the Euroclear system;
 
" Excluded Rights " means the rights, powers, authorities and discretions of, or exercisable by, the Trustee set out in Schedule 6 ( Excluded Rights of the Trustee );
 
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"Extraordinary Resolution" has the meaning set out in paragraph 21 of Schedule 5 ( Provisions for Meetings of Bondholders );
 
"Financial Guarantee" means the Financial Guarantee executed on or about the date hereof between Ambac and the Trustee;
 
"Global Bonds" means the Temporary Global Bond and the Permanent Global Bond and "Global Bond" mean either of them
 
" Holding Company " means any Person of which the first mentioned Person is a Subsidiary;
 
" Issuer Event of Default " means any of the events set out in Condition 11 ( Issuer Events of Default );
 
" Notice of Demand and Certificate " means the notice so named appended to the Financial Guarantee;
 
" outstanding " means, in relation to the Bonds, all the Bonds issued other than (a) those Bonds which have been redeemed in full and cancelled pursuant to Conditions 7 ( Redemption and Purchase ) or 13 ( Restructuring Event ) or otherwise pursuant to this Trust Deed; (b) those Bonds in respect of which the date for redemption in accordance with the Conditions has occurred and, in any such case, the redemption moneys for which (including all interest payable thereon) have been duly paid to the Trustee or to the Principal Paying Agent in the manner provided in the Paying Agency Agreement (and, where appropriate, notice to that effect has been given to the Bondholders in accordance with Condition 17 ( Notices )) and remain available for payment against presentation of the relevant Bonds and/or Coupons; (c) those Bonds which have been purchased and surrendered for cancellation in accordance with Condition 7(e) ( Cancellation ); (d) those Bonds which have become void under Condition 9 ( Prescription ); (e) those mutilated or defaced Definitive Bonds which have been surrendered and cancelled and in respect of which replacements have been issued pursuant to Condition 16 ( Replacement of Bonds and Coupons ); (f) (for the purpose only of ascertaining the amount of Bonds outstanding and without prejudice to the status for any other purpose of the relevant Bonds) those Definitive Bonds which are alleged to have been lost, stolen or destroyed and in respect of which replacements have been issued pursuant to Condition 16 ( Replacement of Bonds and Coupons ); (g) the Temporary Global Bond to the extent that it shall have been exchanged for the Permanent Global Bond pursuant to the provisions contained therein and in Clause 3.3 ( Exchange for Definitive Bonds ), and (h) the Permanent Global Bond to the extent that it shall be exchanged for the Definitive Bonds pursuant to the provisions contained therein and in Clause 3.3 ( Exchange for Definitive Bonds ).
 
provided that   for each of the following purposes, namely:
   
(i)         the right to attend and vote at any meeting of the Bondholders;
     
 
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(ii)      
the determination of how many and which Bonds are for the time being outstanding for the purposes of the Conditions and paragraphs 3, 6, 7 and 11 of Schedule 5 ( Provisions for Meetings of Bondholders );
        
(iii)
any discretion, power or authority contained in this Trust Deed which the Trustee is required, expressly or impliedly, to exercise in or by reference to the interests of any of the Bondholders; and
 
(iv)
the determination by the Trustee (if it is the Controlling Party) whether any of the events specified in Condition 11 ( Issuer Events of Default) is materially adverse to the interests of the Bondholers.
     
those Bonds which are for the time being held beneficially by or for the account of the Issuer or any Subsidiary or holding company of the Issuer, or any other Subsidiary of such holding company shall (unless and until ceasing to be so held) be deemed not to remain outstanding and provided further that notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, in the event that the principal of and/or interest due on any Bond is paid by Ambac pursuant to this Trust Deed and the Financial Guarantee, for the purpose of the rights of subrogation of Ambac under the Financial Guarantee, all such Bonds and/or Coupons (as the case may be) shall remain outstanding and shall not be deemed to have been satisfied or paid by the Issuer, and all covenants and other obligations of the Issuer to the Bondholders under this Trust Deed and the Bonds shall continue to exist for the benefit of Ambac, and Ambac shall be subrogated to the rights of all Bondholders under this Trust Deed and the Bonds who have received such payment from Ambac;
 
" Paying Agency Agreement " means the Paying Agency Agreement dated 5 May 2005, as altered from time to time, between the Issuer, the Trustee, the Principal Paying Agent and the other Paying Agent whereby the Paying Agents were appointed and includes any other agreements approved in writing by the Trustee appointing Successor Paying Agents or altering any such agreements;
 
" Paying Agents " means the institutions (including the Principal Paying Agent) at their respective specified offices referred to in Condition 6 ( Payments ) and/or any Successor Paying Agents, in each case at their respective specified offices;
 
" Permanent Global Bond " means the permanent global Bond to be issued by the Issuer pursuant to Clause 3.1 ( The Global Bonds ) representing the Bonds, in or substantially in the form set out in Schedule 2 ( Form of Permanent Global Bond );
 
" Person " means any person, firm, company or body corporate, corporation, government, state or agency of a state or any association or partnership (whether or not having separate legal personality) or two or more of the foregoing;
 
" Potential Issuer Event of Default " means an event or circumstance which would with the giving of notice and/or lapse of time and/or the issuing of a certificate become an Issuer Event of Default;
 
 
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" principal ", " principal amount " and " principal moneys " in relation to any payment in respect of Bonds includes, where applicable, the Redemption Price referred to in Condition 7(b)(ii) ( Redemption at the option of the Issuer );
 
" Principal Paying Agent " means HSBC Bank plc or any Successor Principal Paying Agent appointed under the Paying Agency Agreement;
 
" Reimbursement and Indemnity Agreement " means the agreement so named between the Issuer and Ambac dated 5 May 2005;
 
" Scheduled Amount " means, in respect of any Scheduled Payment Date, the amount of interest and (if applicable) principal in respect of the Bonds and/or the Coupons (as the case may be) which the Issuer is scheduled to pay on such Scheduled Payment Date;
 
" specified office " means, in relation to any Paying Agent, either the office identified with its name at the end of the Conditions or any other office approved by the Trustee and notified to the Bondholders pursuant to Clause 8.12 ( Change in Agents );
 
" statutory obligation " means any obligation or liability which a person becomes liable to satisfy by virtue of being a member or director of, or under common control with, a corporate entity, pursuant to the provisions of any applicable statute;
 
" Subscription Agreement " means the subscription agreement dated 29 April 2005 between the Issuer, Ambac and The Royal Bank of Scotland plc;
 
" Successor " means, in relation to the Paying Agents, such other or further person as may from time to time be appointed by the Issuer as a Paying Agent, with the written approval of, and on terms approved in writing by, the Trustee and Ambac (so long as Ambac is the Controlling Party), and notice of whose appointment is given to Bondholders pursuant to Clause 8.12 ( Change in Agents );
 
" Temporary Global Bond " means the temporary global Bond to be issued by the Issuer pursuant to Clause 3.1 ( The Global Bonds ) representing the Bonds, in or substantially in the form set out in Schedule 1 ( Form of Temporary Global Bond );
 
" this Trust Deed " means this Deed, the Schedules (as from time to time altered in accordance with this Deed), the Conditions, the Bonds and the Coupons and any other document executed in accordance with this Deed (as from time to time altered in accordance with its terms) and expressed to be supplemental to this Deed; and
 
" trust corporation " means a corporation entitled by rules made under the Public Trustee Act 1906 or entitled pursuant to any other legislation applicable to a trustee in any jurisdiction other than England to carry out the functions of a custodian trustee.
 
1.2          
Terms defined elsewhere
Unless otherwise defined herein, terms defined in the Conditions or the Financial Guarantee shall have the same meanings in this Trust Deed.
 
 
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1.3          
Construction of Certain References
References to:
 
1.3.1  
costs, charges, remuneration or expenses shall include any value added tax, turnover tax or similar tax charged in respect thereof;
 
1.3.2  
" £ ", " pounds " and " sterling " shall be construed as references to the lawful currency for the time being of the United Kingdom;
 
1.3.3  
any action, remedy or method of judicial proceedings for the enforcement of rights of creditors shall include, in respect of any jurisdiction other than England, references to such action, remedy or method of judicial proceedings available or appropriate in such jurisdiction as shall most nearly approximate thereto; and
 
1.3.4  
all references in this Trust Deed or the Conditions involving compliance by the Trustee with a test of reasonableness shall be deemed to include a reference to a requirement that such reasonableness shall be determined by reference primarily to the interests of the holders of the Bonds as a class and in the event of any conflict between such interests and the interests of any other person, the former shall prevail as being paramount.
 
1.3.5  
In this Trust Deed references to Coupons and Couponholders shall apply only if Definitive Bonds have been issued by the Issuer in accordance with Clause 3 ( Form and Issue of the Bonds ).
 
1.4          
Headings
  Headings shall be ignored in construing this Trust Deed.
 
1.5          
Schedules
The Schedules are part of this Trust Deed and shall have effect accordingly.
 
2.       AMOUNT OF THE BONDS AND COVENANT TO PAY
 
2.1          
Amount of the Bonds
The aggregate principal amount of the Bonds is limited to £200,000,000.
 
2.2          
Covenant to pay
The Issuer will in accordance with this Trust Deed on any date when the Bonds or any of them become due to be redeemed unconditionally pay to or to the order of the Trustee in London in pounds sterling in immediately available funds the principal amount of the Bonds becoming due for redemption on that date together with any applicable premium and will (subject to the Conditions) until such payment (both before and after judgment of a court of competent jurisdiction) unconditionally pay to or to the order of the Trustee as aforesaid interest on the principal amount of the Bonds outstanding as set out in the Conditions provided that (1) subject to sub-clause 2.4.2 of Clause 2.4 ( Payment after a Default ), every payment of any sum due in respect of the Bonds made to the Principal Paying Agent as provided in the Paying Agency Agreement shall, to such extent, satisfy such obligation except to the extent that there is failure in its subsequent payment (in the case of the Global Bonds) to or to the order of the bearer thereof in accordance with the provisions of the Temporary Global Bond or the Permanent Global Bond, as the case may be, or (in the case of the Definitive Bonds) to the relevant Bondholders or (as the case may be) Couponholders under the Conditions or (but only for the purpose of Ambac's rights of subrogation under the Financial Guarantee) to the extent that the relevant payment is made by Ambac under the Financial Guarantee and (2) in the case of any payment made after the due date or pursuant to Condition 11 ( Issuer Events of Default ), payment will be deemed to have been made when the full amount due has been received by the Principal Paying Agent or the Trustee and notice to that effect has been given to the Bondholders (if required in accordance with Clause 8.9 ( Notice of Late Payment )), except to the extent that there is failure in the subsequent payment to the relevant Bondholders or (as the case may be) Couponholders under the Conditions or (but only for the purpose of Ambac's rights of subrogation under the Financial Guarantee) to the extent that the relevant payment is made by Ambac under the Financial Guarantee. The Trustee will hold the benefit of this covenant on trust for the Bondholders and Couponholders.
 
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2.3         
Discharge
Subject to Clause 2.4 ( Payment after a Default ), any payment to be made in respect of the Bonds, the Coupons, this Trust Deed or the Financial Guarantee, as the case may be, by the Issuer, the Trustee or Ambac may be made as provided herein, in the Conditions, the Paying Agency Agreement and, as the case may be, the Financial Guarantee, and any payment so made will (subject to Clause 2.4 ( Payment after a Default )) to such extent be a good discharge to the Issuer, the Trustee or Ambac, as the case may be, subject to any rights of subrogation which Ambac may acquire against the Issuer by virtue of making any such payment under the Financial Guarantee.
 
2.4         
Payment after a Default
At any time after an Issuer Event of Default or a Potential Issuer Event of Default has occurred and is continuing the Trustee may:
 
2.4.1  
by notice in writing to Ambac, the Issuer and the Paying Agents, require the Paying Agents, until notified by the Trustee to the contrary, so far as permitted by any applicable law:
 
(a)  
to act as Paying Agents of the Trustee under this Trust Deed and the Bonds on the terms of the Paying Agency Agreement (with consequential amendments as necessary and except that the Trustee's liability for the indemnification, remuneration and all other out-of-pocket expenses of the Paying Agents will be limited to the amounts for the time being held by the Trustee in respect of the Bonds on the terms of this Trust Deed) and thereafter to hold all Definitive Bonds and Coupons and all moneys, documents and records held by them in respect of the Bonds and Coupons to the order of the Trustee; or
 
(b)  
to deliver all Definitive Bonds and Coupons and all moneys, documents and records held by them in respect of the Bonds and Coupons (save for such documents and records which the Paying Agents are obliged not to release by virtue of any applicable law or regulation or by order of any court of competent jurisdiction) to the Trustee or as the Trustee directs in such notice; and
 
 
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2.4.2  
by notice in writing to the Issuer require it to make all subsequent payments in respect of the Bonds and Coupons to or to the order of the Trustee and not to the Principal Paying Agent.
 
2.5          
Further Issues
2.5.1  
The Issuer shall be at liberty from time to time (but subject always to the provisions of this Trust Deed) without the consent of the Bondholders or Couponholders to create and issue further bonds or notes (whether in bearer or registered form) ranking pari passu in all respects (or in all respects save for the first payment of interest thereon), and so that the same shall be consolidated and form a single series, with the Bonds and/or any further bonds or notes of any series, provided that :
 
(a)  
Ambac has given its prior written consent (in its absolute discretion) to such further issue and to amend or substitute the Financial Guarantee so that the Financial Guarantee also covers such further bonds or notes on the same terms mutatis mutandis as apply to the Bonds;
 
(b)  
the Trustee is satisfied that the rating granted in respect of the Bonds by S&P and Moody's will not thereby be adversely affected; and
 
(c)  
the Issuer shall not create and issue such further bonds or notes while any default exists in relation to any payment by the Issuer of any amounts due under this Trust Deed.
 
2.5.2  
Any further bonds or notes which are to be created and issued pursuant to the provisions of sub-clause 2.5.1 above shall be constituted by a trust deed supplemental to this Trust Deed. In such case the Issuer shall, prior to the issue of such further bonds or notes, execute and deliver to the Trustee and Ambac a trust deed supplemental to this Trust Deed (in relation to which all applicable stamp duties or other documentation fees, duties or taxes have been paid and, if applicable, duly stamped or denoted accordingly) and containing a covenant by the Issuer in the form mutatis mutandis of Clause 2.2 ( Covenant to Pay ) in relation to the principal, premium (if any) and interest in respect of such further bonds or notes and such other provisions (corresponding to the provisions contained in this Trust Deed) as the Trustee shall require.
 
2.5.3  
A memorandum of every such supplemental Trust Deed shall be endorsed by the Trustee on this Trust Deed and by the Issuer and Ambac on their duplicates of this Trust Deed.
 
 
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2.5.4  
Whenever it is proposed to create and issue any further bonds or notes the Issuer shall give to the Trustee and Ambac not less than 14 days' notice in writing of its intention so to do stating the amount of further bonds or notes proposed to be created and issued.
 
3.            
FORM AND ISSUE OF THE BONDS
 
3.1          
The Global Bonds
The Bonds will initially be represented by the Temporary Global Bond without Coupons in the principal amount at the date hereof of £200,000,000 which, when duly executed and authenticated, will be deposited by the Issuer with HSBC Bank plc (the " Common Depositary ") as common depositary for Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg on the date hereof on terms that the Common Depositary shall hold the Temporary Global Bond to or to the order of the Issuer against payment of the net proceeds of the issue of the Bonds in accordance with the Subscription Agreement, following which it shall hold the Temporary Global Bond for the account of the Bondholders. The Issuer shall also deposit on the date hereof the Permanent Global Bond without Coupons in the principal amount of up to £200,000,000 with the Common Depositary who shall hold the Permanent Global Bond pending exchange of the Temporary Global Bond (in whole or in part) therefore in accordance with their respective terms. Following exchange of the Temporary Global Bond in whole for the Permanent Global Bond in accordance with their respective terms the Bonds shall (subject as provided in Clause 3.3 ( Exchange for Definitive Bonds ) below) thereafter be represented by the Permanent Global Bond.
 
The procedures as regards the issue, exchange, execution, authentication, delivery, surrender, cancellation, presentation and endorsement of the Temporary Global Bond and the Permanent Global Bond (or part thereof) and any other matters to be carried out by the relevant parties upon such exchange (in whole or in part) shall be made in accordance with this Clause 3 , their respective terms and the rules and procedures of Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg for the time being.
 
3.2          
Signatures and Authentication
The Global Bonds and the Definitive Bonds will be signed manually or in facsimile by a Director of the Issuer. The Issuer may use the facsimile signature of any person who at the date of this Trust Deed is a Director of the Issuer even if at the time of issue of any Bonds he/she no longer holds such office. The Issuer shall procure that, prior to the issue and delivery of each Global Bond, each Global Bond will be authenticated by an authorised signatory on behalf of the Principal Paying Agent and no Global Bond shall be valid for any purpose unless and until so authenticated. The Bonds so executed and, if applicable, so authenticated shall be binding and valid obligations of the Issuer. Until it (or part thereof) has been exchanged pursuant to Clauses 3.1 ( The Global Bonds ) or 3.3 ( Exchange for Definitive Bonds ) (but without prejudice to the escrow arrangements referred to in Clause 3.1 ( The Global Bonds ), each Global Bond (or part thereof) shall in all respects be entitled to the same benefits as a Definitive Bond and each Global Bond shall be subject to the provisions hereof except that the bearer thereof shall be the only person entitled to receive payments of principal and interest as set out therein.
 
 
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3.3       Exchange for Definitive Bonds
If while the Bonds are represented by one or more Global Bonds (i) an Ambac Event of Default shall have occurred or (ii) either Euroclear or Clearstream, Luxembourg is closed for business for a continuous period of 14 days (other than by reason of holiday, statutory or otherwise) or announces an intention permanently to cease business or (iii) as a result of any change in, or amendment to, the laws or regulations of the United Kingdom or of any political sub-division of, or any authority in, the United Kingdom having power to tax or any change in the application or official interpretation of such laws or regulations which becomes effective on or after 29 April 2005, the Issuer, Ambac or any Paying Agent is or will be required to make any withholding or deduction from any payment in respect of the Bonds which would not be required if the Bonds were in definitive form, then the Issuer shall, (subject as mentioned below), within 30 days of the occurrence of such relevant event but not prior to the expiry of a period of 40 days commencing on the date hereof, issue Definitive Bonds (with all unmatured Coupons attached) in exchange for the whole (or the remaining part(s) outstanding) of the Permanent Global Bond. If any of the events mentioned in (i), (ii) or (iii) occurs whilst the Bonds are represented by the Temporary Global Bond (or part thereof) the Temporary Global Bond (or that part) shall forthwith be exchanged for the Permanent Global Bond (or part thereof) in accordance with its terms and Clause 3.1 ( The Global Bonds ) above so that the Bonds are then represented solely by the Permanent Global Bond. All Definitive Bonds shall be printed, proofed, executed and delivered as aforesaid but shall be held by the Principal Paying Agent until a Bondholder requests the Issuer through the Principal Paying Agent that his interest in the Permanent Global Bond be exchanged for Definitive Bonds whereupon such Definitive Bonds shall be issued to such Bondholder as aforesaid without charge. The procedures to be carried out by the relevant parties upon such exchange shall be made in accordance with the provisions of the Permanent Global Bond and the rules and procedures of Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg for the time being. The Permanent Global Bond shall be endorsed by or on behalf of the Principal Paying Agent in respect of those Definitive Bonds which are so delivered.
 
3.4         
The Definitive Bonds
The Definitive Bonds shall be serially numbered and issued in bearer form in the denominations of £50,000 and £100,000 each with all unmatured Coupons attached. The Definitive Bonds and the Coupons will be security printed in accordance with all applicable stock exchange requirements in or substantially in the respective forms set out in Schedule 3 ( Form of Definitive Bond ) and the Definitive Bonds will be endorsed with the Conditions.
 
3.5          
Entitlement to treat holder as owner
The holder of any Bond or Coupon will (except as otherwise required by law) be treated as its absolute owner for all purposes (whether or not it is overdue and regardless of any notice of ownership, trust, or any interest in it, any writing on it, or its theft or loss) and no person will be liable for so treating the holder.
 
 
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4.            
STAMP DUTIES AND TAXES
 
4.1          
Stamp Duties
The Issuer will pay any stamp, issue, registration, documentary or other taxes and duties, including interest and penalties, payable in Belgium, Luxembourg and the United Kingdom in respect of the creation, issue and offering of the Bonds and the Coupons and the execution or delivery of this Trust Deed. The Issuer will also indemnify the Trustee, Ambac, the Bondholders and the Couponholders from and against all stamp, issue, registration, documentary or other taxes paid by any of them in any jurisdiction in connection with any action properly taken by or on behalf of the Trustee, Ambac or, as the case may be, (where entitled under Condition 14 ( Enforcement ) to do so) the Bondholders or the Couponholders to enforce the obligations of the Issuer under this Trust Deed, the Bonds or the Coupons.
 
4.2          
Change of Taxing Jurisdiction
If the Issuer becomes subject generally to the taxing jurisdiction of any territory or any authority of or in that territory having power to tax other than or in addition to the United Kingdom or any such authority of or in the United Kingdom then the Issuer will (unless the Trustee otherwise agrees) in a trust deed supplemental hereto give to the Trustee an undertaking in form and manner satisfactory to the Trustee in terms corresponding to the terms of Condition 8 ( Taxation ) with the substitution for, or (as the case may be) the addition to, the references in that Condition to the United Kingdom or any authority thereof or therein having power to tax of references to that other or additional territory or authority to whose taxing jurisdiction the Issuer has become so subject and in such event this Trust Deed, the Bonds and the Coupons will be read accordingly. In addition, such supplemental Trust Deed shall also modify Condition 7(c) ( Redemption for tax reasons ) by the substitution for, or (as the case may be) the addition to, the references in that Condition to the United Kingdom or any authority in or of the United Kingdom having power to tax, of references to that other territory or authority to whose taxing jurisdiction the Issuer has become so subject and in such event this Trust Deed, the Bonds and the Coupons will be read accordingly.
 
5.            
THE TRUST DEED, THE BONDS AND THE FINANCIAL GUARANTEE
 
5.1         
Bonds incorporated by reference
The Issuer hereby covenants with the Trustee and Ambac that it will perform and comply with its obligations under the Bonds which are expressed to be binding on it. Subject to Conditions 14 ( Enforcement ) and 15 ( Controlling Party ) and Clause 19 ( Controlling Party ), the Trustee shall be entitled to enforce the obligations of the Issuer under the Bonds and the Coupons in the manner therein provided as if the Bonds and the Coupon were incorporated in this Trust Deed, which shall be read and construed as one document with the Bonds. The provisions contained in Schedule 4 ( Terms and Conditions of the Bonds ) shall have effect in the same manner as if herein set forth.
 
 
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5.2         
Bonds and Financial Guarantee subject to Trust Deed
The Bonds and the Financial Guarantee shall be subject to the provisions of this Trust Deed, all of which shall be binding upon the Issuer, Ambac, the Bondholders and the Couponholders and all persons claiming through or under them respectively.
 
5.3         
Evidence of Default
If the Trustee makes any claim, institutes any legal proceeding or lodges any proof in a winding up of the Issuer and/or Ambac, proof that the Issuer and/or Ambac, as the case may be, has failed to pay any principal or interest due and payable in respect of any particular Bond or Coupon shall (unless the contrary is proved) be sufficient evidence that the Issuer and/or Ambac, as the case may be, has made the same default as regards all other Bonds or Coupons in respect of which a corresponding payment is due and payable.
 
6.            
APPLICATION OF MONEYS RECEIVED BY THE TRUSTEE
 
6.1         
Declaration of Trust
All moneys received by the Trustee from the Issuer in respect of the Bonds and all other amounts payable under this Trust Deed will be held by the Trustee upon trust to apply them (subject to Clause 6.2 ( Accumulation )):
 
6.1.1       
firstly , in payment of all costs, charges, expenses and liabilities incurred by the Trustee (including remuneration payable to the Trustee) in carrying out its functions under this Trust Deed;
 
6.1.2       
secondly , in payment of any interest owing in respect of the Bonds (including any amounts owing to Ambac pursuant to its rights of subrogation following any payment of interest by Ambac under the Financial Guarantee) pari passu and rateably; and
 
6.1.3       
thirdly , in payment of any principal and premium (if any) owing in respect of the Bonds (including any amounts of principal owing to Ambac pursuant to its rights of subrogation following any payment of principal by Ambac under the Financial Guarantee) pari passu and rateably.
 
Without prejudice to this Clause 6.1 ( Declaration of Trust ), if the Trustee holds any moneys which represent principal, premium or interest in respect of Bonds or Coupons which have become void under Condition 9 ( Prescription ), the Trustee will hold such moneys upon the above trusts provided that the Trustee shall be required to treat the payments of interest and/or principal and/or premium as having been satisfied and no amounts as outstanding or owing in respect thereof. The Trustee shall as soon as practicable apply such moneys as aforesaid and promptly thereafter return such moneys (or the balance thereof, as the case may be) to the Issuer.
 
6.2         
Accumulation
If the amount of the moneys at any time available for payment in respect of the Bonds under Clause 6.1 ( Declaration of Trust ) is less than 10 per cent. of the principal amount of the Bonds then outstanding, the Trustee may, at its discretion, invest such moneys. The Trustee may retain such investments and accumulate the resulting income until the investments and the accumulations, together with any other funds for the time being under the control of the Trustee and available for such payment, amount to at least 10 per cent. of the principal amount of the Bonds then outstanding and then such investments, accumulations and funds (after deduction of, or provision for, any applicable taxes) will be applied as specified in Clause 6.1 ( Declaration of Trust ).
 
 
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6.3         
Investment
Any moneys held by the Trustee may be invested in the name or under the control of the Trustee in any investments or other assets in any part of the world whether or not they produce income or are placed on deposit in the name or under the control of the Trustee at such bank or other financial institution and in such currency as the Trustee may, in its absolute discretion, think fit. The Trustee may at any time vary or transpose any such investments for or into other such investments or convert any moneys so deposited into any other currency, and will not be responsible for any loss occasioned thereby, whether by depreciation in value, fluctuation in exchange rates or otherwise.
 
7.            
AMBAC AND THE FINANCIAL GUARANTEE
 
7.1          
Notice of Demand and Certificate
The Issuer shall procure that the Trustee is notified by no later than close of business on the sixth business day before each Scheduled Payment Date if the amount available to the Issuer for payment of the interest and (if applicable) principal which the Issuer is scheduled to pay on such Scheduled Payment Date in respect of the Bonds and/or Coupons, as the case may be, is or will be less than the Scheduled Amount. If such amount is insufficient for payment of the Scheduled Amount, the Trustee shall deliver a Notice of Demand and Certificate to Ambac with a copy to the Issuer and the Principal Paying Agent requiring Ambac to pay the shortfall in accordance with the terms of the Financial Guarantee.
 
7.2          
Payments under Financial Guarantee at Ambac's Option
Any election by Ambac under the Financial Guarantee to pay any amount of principal in respect of the Bonds and any accrued interest thereon which has become immediately due and payable (whether by virtue of acceleration, prepayment or otherwise) other than on the relevant Scheduled Payment Date shall be made by notice in writing to the Trustee, with a copy to the Issuer, specifying the date on which such amount will be paid by Ambac.
 
7.3          
Payments under Financial Guarantee to go to Principal Paying Agent
The Trustee shall direct Ambac to pay all sums payable under the Financial Guarantee to the Principal Paying Agent; provided that at any time after the occurrence of an Issuer Event of Default, a Potential Issuer Event of Default or an Ambac Event of Default or in the event that the Trustee considers that it would be inappropriate for such sums to be paid to the Principal Paying Agent, the Trustee may require Ambac to make payments to the Trustee or as it may otherwise direct.
 
 
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7.4          
Notice of Ambac's transfer instructions
As soon as reasonably practicable before each date on which Ambac is obliged to make a payment under the Financial Guarantee, it shall notify the Trustee and the Issuer of its irrevocable instructions to the bank effecting payment on its behalf to transfer such amount in accordance with the relevant Notice of Demand and Certificate.
 
7.5           
The Issuer not discharged
The Issuer shall not be discharged from its obligations under the Bonds and this Trust Deed by any payment under the Financial Guarantee; provided that this Clause shall operate only for the purpose of the rights of subrogation of Ambac contemplated by Clause 7.7 ( Subrogation ).
 
7.6          
Return of Financial Guarantee
The Trustee will return the Financial Guarantee to Ambac for cancellation upon:
 
7.6.1       
the redemption in full of the Bonds by the Issuer, the payment in full of accrued interest thereon and the expiry of any applicable preference period during which the amount of any payments in respect of the Bonds which are subsequently avoided in whole or in part as a preferential transaction under applicable law may be required to be paid by Ambac under the Financial Guarantee; or
 
7.6.2      
the payment in full of all amounts which are or may become due under the Financial Guarantee.
 
7.7          
Subrogation
Without prejudice to its other rights and remedies, Ambac shall be subrogated to all and any rights of the bearers of the Global Bonds, the Bondholders and the Couponholders against the Issuer to the extent of amounts due and payable in respect of the Bonds which have been paid by Ambac under the Financial Guarantee.
 
7.8         
Conflict
To the extent that the provisions of this Trust Deed and the Financial Guarantee conflict, the provisions of the Financial Guarantee shall prevail.
 
8.            
COVENANTS BY THE ISSUER
 
So long as any Bond is outstanding, the Issuer will:
 
8.1          
Books of Account
Keep proper books of account and, at any time after the occurrence of an Issuer Event of Default or a Potential Issuer Event of Default or if the Trustee or Ambac (so long as it is the Controlling Party) has reasonable grounds to believe that any such event has occurred so far as permitted by applicable law, allow and procure that each of its Subsidiaries (if any) will allow the Trustee, Ambac (so long as it is the Controlling Party) and anyone appointed by either of them access to the books of account of the Issuer and/or the relevant Subsidiary respectively at all reasonable times during normal business hours and to discuss the same with a responsible officer of the Issuer.
 
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8.2          
Notice of Issuer Event of Default
Notify the Trustee and Ambac in writing immediately upon becoming aware of the occurrence of any Issuer Event of Default or Potential Issuer Event of Default.
 
8.3          
Information
So far as permitted by applicable law and regulations, give to the Trustee and Ambac such information as they shall require for the performance or the discharge of their respective duties, powers, trusts, authorities and discretions hereunder or under the Financial Guarantee or, in the case of the Trustee, vested in it by operation of law.
 
8.4          
Financial Statements etc.  
Send to the Trustee and Ambac (so long as it is the Controlling Party) at the time of their issue and in the case of annual financial statements in any event not more than 180 days after the end of each financial year one copy (in the English language) of every balance sheet and profit and loss account prepared (in either case) in accordance with United Kingdom generally accepted accounting standards applied on a consistent basis (unless otherwise stated in the notes thereto) and one copy of every other document issued or sent by the Issuer to the holders of its publicly held securities generally and, if so requested by the Trustee or Ambac (so long as it is the Controlling Party), one copy of its quarterly balance sheet and profit and loss account when generally available, but in respect of the Issuer, no more than 30 days after the end of the quarter.
 
8.5          
Certificate of Director
Send to the Trustee and Ambac, within 14 days of its annual audited balance sheet and profit and loss account being made available to its members, and also within 14 days after any request by the Trustee or Ambac, a certificate of the Issuer, signed by two Directors to the effect that, having made all reasonable enquiries, to the best of the knowledge, information and belief of the Directors as at a date (the " Certification Date ") being not more than five days before the date of the certificate no Issuer Event of Default or Potential Issuer Event of Default had occurred since the date of this Trust Deed or, if later, the Certification Date of the last such certificate (if any) and is continuing or, if such an event had occurred, giving details of it, provided however that the Issuer shall not be required to provide any such certificate more than twice in any calendar year unless the Trustee and/or Ambac reasonably believes that an Issuer Event of Default or a Potential Issuer Event of Default has occurred (in which case the Issuer shall not be required to provide a certificate more than once in any two week period).
  
8.6          
Notices to Bondholders
Send to the Trustee and to Ambac at least five business days before the date of publication, a copy of the form of each notice to the Bondholders to be published in accordance with Condition 17 ( Notices ) and upon publication two copies of each notice so published, (such notice to be in a form approved by the Trustee (such approval not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed)) and Ambac (so long as it is the Controlling Party), but such approval shall not, unless so stated, constitute approval of such notice for the purposes of section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000.
 
 
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8.7          
Further Assurance
So far as permitted by applicable law, at all times execute all such further documents and do all such further acts and things as may be necessary in the opinion of the Trustee and Ambac (so long as it is the Controlling Party) to give effect to the obligations or the Issuer under this Trust Deed.
 
8.8          
Notice of non-payment
Use its best efforts to procure that the Principal Paying Agent notifies the Trustee forthwith in accordance with the Paying Agency Agreement in the event that it does not receive unconditionally the full amount in the relevant currency of the moneys payable on the date on which such amount is to be received by the Principal Paying Agent in accordance with the terms of the Paying Agency Agreement.
 
8.9          
Notice of late payment
Give notice to Ambac and to the Bondholders of any unconditional payment to the Principal Paying Agent or the Trustee of any sum due in respect of the Bonds or Coupons made after the due date for such payment.
 
8.10       
Listing
Use all reasonable endeavours to maintain the admission of the Bonds to listing on the Official List of the UK Listing Authority and to trading on the London Stock Exchange plc. If, however, it is unable to do so, having used such endeavours, or if the maintenance of such listing is agreed by the Trustee and Ambac (if then the Controlling Party) to be unduly onerous and the Trustee is satisfied that the interests of the Bondholders would not be thereby materially prejudiced, the Issuer will instead use all reasonable endeavours to obtain and maintain a listing or quotation of the Bonds on such other stock exchange (giving notice to the Bondholders of any such new listing), which shall be in any case a "recognised stock exchange" for the purposes of section 841 of the UK Income and Corporation Taxes Act 1988, as it may (with the written approval of the Trustee and Ambac (if then the Controlling Party)) decide, and the Issuer shall also use all reasonable endeavours to procure that there will at all times be furnished to any stock exchange or listing authority on which the Bonds are for the time being listed such information as such stock exchange or listing authority may require to be furnished in accordance with its normal requirements or in accordance with any arrangements for the time being made with any such stock exchange or listing authority .
  
8.11       
Maintenance of Paying Agents
At all times maintain a Principal Paying Agent having a specified office in London and, if European Council Directive 2003/48/EC or any other Directive implementing the conclusions of the ECOFIN Council meeting of 26-27 November 2000 is brought into force, a paying agent in a member state of the European Union that will not be obliged to withhold or deduct tax pursuant to such Directive or any law implementing or complying with, or introduced to conform to, such Directive.
 
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8.12       
Change in Agents
Give not less than 14 days' prior notice to the Bondholders and to Ambac of any future appointment or any resignation or removal of any Paying Agent or of any change by any Paying Agent of its specified office and not make any such appointment or removal or change without the written approval of the Trustee and Ambac (so long as it is the Controlling Party).
 
8.13       
Early Redemption
Give prior notice to the Trustee and to Ambac (within the period set out in such Conditions as applicable) of any proposed redemption pursuant to Condition 7(b) ( Redemption at the option of the Issuer ) or 7(c) ( Redemption for tax reasons ) and redeem Bonds accordingly.
 
8.14       
Negative Pledge
Give notice to the Trustee and to Ambac as soon as practicable after the Issuer has formed the intention to create or permit to arise or subsist any Security Interest to secure any Relevant Indebtedness or any guarantee of or indemnity in respect of any Relevant Indebtedness or becomes aware of the existence of any such Security Interest, in each case where the creation or existence of which would oblige the Security Interest to be extended to the Bonds pursuant to Condition 4 ( Negative Pledge ).
 
8.15       
Obligations under Paying Agency Agreement
Comply with and perform all its obligations under the Paying Agency Agreement and use all its best endeavours to procure that the Paying Agents comply with and perform all their respective obligations thereunder and any notice given by the Trustee pursuant to sub-clause 2.4.1 of Clause 2.4 ( Payment after a Default ) and notify the Trustee and Ambac (if then the Controlling Party) forthwith on being notified in writing by the relevant Paying Agent of any material breach of the Paying Agency Agreement by such Paying Agent and not make any amendment or modification to such Agreement without the prior written approval of the Trustee and Ambac (if then the Controlling Party).
 
8.16       
List of authorised signatories
Upon the execution of this Trust Deed and thereafter upon any change of the same, deliver to the Trustee (with a copy to the Principal Paying Agent and Ambac) a list of the authorised signatories of the Issuer, together with a certified specimen signature of each such authorised signatory.
 
8.17       
Director's Certificate
Give to the Trustee and Ambac a certificate of two Directors of the Issuer:
 
8.17.1   
specifying the aggregate amount of any Relevant Indebtedness of the Issuer or guaranteed by the Issuer or any of its Subsidiaries in respect of which a Security Interest or Security Interests has or have been created or is or are outstanding, such certificate to be provided before the Issuer or such Subsidiary creates or has outstanding any new Security Interest in respect of Relevant Indebtedness;
 
 
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8.17.2   
specifying the then current Interest Cover ratio, such certificate to be provided by the Issuer not more than 60 days after 30 June and 31 December of each year;
 
8.17.3   
specifying the then current ratio of Senior Total Net Debt to RAV, such certificate to be provided before the Issuer incurs any Financial Indebtedness (other than Permitted Financial Indebtedness) or recommends, makes or pays any Distribution to any of its shareholders;
 
8.17.4   
specifying details of:
 
(a)  
any revocation or surrender or any modification to the terms and conditions of the Issuer's Electricity Distribution Licence which is requisite to the conduct of the Issuer's business at the relevant time;
 
(b)  
any legislation enacted which removes, qualifies or amends (other than an amendment which is of a formal, minor or technical nature) the duties of the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (or any successor) and/or OFGEM under the Electricity Act as in force on the Issue Date; and
 
(c)  
any proposal of any amendment to the provisions of the memorandum and articles of association for the time being of the Issuer described in Condition 10(a)(iii),
 
8.18       
Certificate of Outstandings
In order to enable the Trustee to ascertain the amount of Bonds for the time being outstanding and Ambac to ascertain the extent of the Guaranteed Obligations, deliver to the Trustee and Ambac within 28 days of being requested by the Trustee or Ambac, as the case may be, a certificate in writing signed by two Directors of the Issuer setting out the total number and principal amount of Bonds which up to and including the date being no more than 10 days before the date of the certificate have been purchased and not cancelled and are held by or on behalf of the Issuer, CE Electric UK Funding Company or any Affiliate, Holding Company or Subsidiary of the foregoing, provided that neither the Trustee nor Ambac may request such a certificate more than once in any calendar year.
 
9.            
COVENANTS BY AMBAC
Ambac hereby covenants with the Trustee and, in respect of Clauses 9.1 ( Financial Information of Ambac ), 9.3 ( Information for Stock Exchange ), 9.4 ( Further Assurance ), 9.5 ( Notification of Ambac Event of Default ), 9.6 ( Confirmation of no Ambac Event of Default ), 9.7 ( Notice to Bondholders ) and 9.8 ( List of Authorised Signatories ) below, with the Issuer, that so long as any of the Bonds remain outstanding, it will:
 
9.1          
Financial information of Ambac
Send to the Trustee and to the Issuer at the time of issue thereof and in any event not more than 180 days after the end of each of its financial years one copy of every audited balance sheet and audited income statement prepared (in either case) in accordance with United Kingdom generally accepted accounting standards applied on a consistent basis (unless otherwise stated in the notes to such financial statements) and, if so requested by the Trustee or the Issuer, one copy of its quarterly balance sheet and income statement when generally available.
 
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9.2         
Information
So far as permitted by applicable law and regulatory requirements, at all times give to the Trustee such information as may be required for the purpose of the discharge of the duties, powers, trusts, authorities and discretions vested in it by this Trust Deed or by operation of law.
 
9.3         
Information for stock exchange
Use its reasonable endeavours to procure that, at the request of the Issuer, there will at all times be furnished at the expense of the Issuer to any stock exchange or listing authority on which the Bonds are for the time being listed such information concerning Ambac and the Financial Guarantee as such stock exchange or listing authority may require to be furnished in accordance with its normal requirements or in accordance with any arrangements for the time being made by the Issuer with such stock exchange with the prior approval of Ambac (such approval not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed).
 
9.4          
Further assurance
So far as permitted by applicable law and regulatory requirements, execute all such further documents and do all further acts and things which are necessary at any time in the opinion of the Trustee to give effect to the provisions of this Trust Deed and the Financial Guarantee.
 
9.5         
Notification of Ambac Event of Default
Give notice in writing to the Trustee, with a copy to the Issuer, forthwith upon becoming aware of the occurrence of any Ambac Event of Default.
 
9.6         
Confirmation of no Ambac Event of Default  
Deliver to the Trustee at least once in every financial year and as soon as practicable after being so requested in writing by the Trustee, a certificate of Ambac signed by an authorised signatory of Ambac certifying that at the date thereof, to the best of Ambac's knowledge and belief having made all reasonable enquiries, no Ambac Event of Default has occurred or, if it has, specifying such Ambac Event of Default and stating when it occurred and whether it is continuing, provided, however , that Ambac shall not be required to provide such a certificate more than twice in any calendar year unless the Trustee reasonably believes that an Ambac Event of Default has occurred (in which event Ambac shall not be required to provide such a certificate more than once in any two week period).
 
9.7         
Notice to Bondholders  
Send to the Trustee, with a copy to the Issuer, a copy of the form of any notice to be given to the Bondholders by Ambac and will not publish any such notice until the same has been approved by the Trustee (which approval shall not, unless so stated, constitute approval of such notice for the purposes of section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000).
 
 
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9.8         
List of Authorised Signatories  
Upon the execution of this Trust Deed and thereafter forthwith upon any change of the same, deliver to the Trustee (with a copy to the Principal Paying Agent and the Issuer) a list of the authorised signatories of Ambac, together with a certified specimen signature of each such authorised signatory.
 
10.          
COVENANTS BY THE ISSUER IN FAVOUR OF AMBAC
 
10.1          
The Issuer hereby covenants with and undertakes to Ambac that, so long as any of the Bonds remain outstanding and for so long as no Ambac Event of Default has occurred and is continuing (and provided that the covenants in this Clause 11 will continue where any Ambac Event of Default relating to paragraph (a)(i) of the definition of "Ambac Event of Default" (as defined in the Conditions) is caused solely by an administrative or technical error which is cured within two Business Days of such Ambac Event of Default first arising), (with respect to itself) that it will comply with the following covenants and restrictions:
 
10.1.1  
it shall:
 
(a)  
not modify or amend, or agree to any modification or amendment to the Electricity Distribution Licence without the consent of OFGEM;
 
(b)  
use all reasonable endeavours to procure that the underlying or shadow credit rating of the Bonds and any outstanding public long term unsecured, unguaranteed and unsubordinated debt of the Issuer is assigned Investment Grade Ratings by both Rating Agencies, and that such Investment Grade Ratings are maintained;
 
(c)  
not, without the prior written consent of Ambac, agree to any amendment to the provisions of the memorandum and articles of association for the time being of the Issuer that (x) restrict the activities in which any of the Issuer or any of its Subsidiaries (as applicable) may engage or participate in, (y) limit the disposal by any such company of any or all of its assets, revenues or properties of any nature whatsoever and (z) limit the Incurrence of Indebtedness by any such company, provided that this paragraph (iii) shall not apply to any such amendment required by OFGEM and, if such amendment is required by OFGEM, the Issuer shall notify Ambac in writing as soon as practicable of such requirement;
 
(d)  
procure that no Security Interest is created or granted upon, or with respect to, any of the present or future ordinary shares of the Issuer or any of its Subsidiaries;
 
 
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(e)  
not, without the prior written consent of Ambac, modify or amend, or consent to any modification or amendment of any Existing Negative Pledge; and
 
(f)  
not have any subsidiary undertaking (as defined in the Companies Act) except for the Issuer, unless required to do so by OFGEM or consequent to any rule or regulation of OFGEM which is applicable to the Issuer.
 
10.1.2  
the Issuer will procure that:
 
(a)  
Interest Cover for each Relevant Period ending on or prior to 31 December 2006 shall be not less than 2.00:1; and
 
(b)  
Interest Cover for each Relevant Period ending after 31 December 2006 shall not be less than 2.50:1;
 
10.1.3  
the Issuer shall not incur any further Financial Indebtedness other than Permitted Financial Indebtedness unless the following conditions are satisfied:
 
(a)  
if such Financial Indebtedness is incurred:
 
(i)  
in the period commencing on the Issue Date and ending on 30 December 2008, the ratio of Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Financial Indebtedness is to be incurred and after giving effect to the gross proposed Financial Indebtedness on a pro forma basis but less cash raised to the extent that it is retained for (i) redemption of existing indebtedness or (ii) Capital Investment) to RAV does not exceed 0.68:1; or
 
(ii)  
on or after 31 December 2008, the ratio of Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Financial Indebtedness is to be incurred and after giving effect to the gross proposed Financial Indebtedness on a pro forma basis but less cash raised to the extent that it is retained for (i) redemption of existing indebtedness or (ii) Capital Investment) to RAV does not exceed 0.65:1; and
 
(b)  
such Financial Indebtedness (save for any Financial Indebtedness which in aggregate does not exceed 5% of RAV) ranks no higher than pari passu with the Bonds.
 
10.1.4  
the Issuer will not incur any further Financial Indebtedness other than Permitted Financial Indebtedness unless the following conditions are satisfied:
 
(a)  
if such Financial Indebtedness is incurred:
 
(i)  
in the period commencing on the Issue Date and ending on 30 December 2008, the ratio of Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Financial Indebtedness is to be incurred and after giving effect to the gross proposed Financial Indebtedness on a pro forma basis but less cash raised to the extent that it is retained for (i) redemption of existing indebtedness or (ii) Capital Investment) to RAV does not exceed 0.68:1; or
 
 
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(ii)  
on or after 31 December 2008, the ratio of Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Financial Indebtedness is to be incurred and after giving effect to the gross proposed Financial Indebtedness on a pro forma basis but less cash raised to the extent that it is retained for (i) redemption of existing indebtedness or (ii) Capital Investment) to RAV does not exceed 0.65:1; and
 
(b)  
such Financial Indebtedness (save for any Financial Indebtedness which in aggregate does not exceed 5% of RAV) ranks no higher than pari passu with the Issuer's present and future unsecured payment obligations.
 
10.1.5  
the Issuer will not make any Distribution unless:
 
(a)  
in the period commencing on the Issue Date and ending on 30 December 2006, the ratio of Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Distribution is to be made and calculated on a pro forma basis as if the Distribution had been made) to RAV does not exceed 0.79:1;
 
(b)  
in the period commencing on 31 December 2006 and ending on 30 December 2007, the ratio of Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Distribution is to be made and calculated on a pro forma basis as if the Distribution had been made) to RAV does not exceed 0.77:1; and
 
(c)  
on or after 31 December 2007, the ratio of Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Distribution is to be made and calculated on a pro forma basis as if the Distribution had been made) to RAV does not exceed 0.75:1.
 
11.         
REMUNERATION AND INDEMNIFICATION OF THE TRUSTEE
 
11.1       
Normal Remuneration
So long as any Bond is outstanding the Issuer will pay to the Trustee by way of remuneration for its services as Trustee such sum as may from time to time be agreed between them. Such remuneration will accrue from day to day from the date of this Trust Deed and shall be payable on such dates as may from time to time be agreed between the Issuer and the Trustee. However, if any payment to a Bondholder or Couponholder of the moneys due in respect of any Bond or Coupon is improperly withheld or refused upon due presentation of such Bond or Coupon, such remuneration will again accrue as from the date of such presentation until payment to such Bondholder or Couponholder is duly made.
 
 
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11.2       
Extra Remuneration
At any time after the occurrence of an Issuer Event of Default or an Ambac Event of Default or if the Trustee finds it expedient or necessary or is requested by the Issuer to undertake duties which the Trustee and the Issuer agree to be of an exceptional nature or otherwise outside the scope of the normal duties of the Trustee under this Trust Deed, the Issuer will pay such additional remuneration as may be agreed between them or, failing agreement as to any of the matters in this Clause 11.2 (or as to such sums referred to in Clause 11.1 ( Normal Remuneration )) as determined by a merchant or investment bank (acting as an expert) selected by the Trustee and approved by the Issuer or, failing such approval, nominated by the President for the time being of The Law Society of England and Wales, the expenses involved in such nomination and the fee of such merchant or investment bank being paid by the Issuer. The determination of such merchant or investment bank will be conclusive and binding on the Issuer, the Trustee, the Bondholders and the Couponholders, save in the case of manifest error.
 
11.3       
Expenses
The Issuer will also pay or discharge all costs, charges, liabilities and expenses properly incurred by the Trustee in relation to the preparation and execution of this Trust Deed and the carrying out of its functions under this Trust Deed including, but not limited to, legal and travelling expenses and any stamp registration, documentary or other taxes or duties paid by the Trustee in connection with any legal proceedings brought or contemplated by the Trustee against the Issuer for enforcing any obligation of the Issuer under this Trust Deed, the Bonds or the Coupons.
 
11.4       
Payment of Expenses
All costs, charges, liabilities and expenses properly incurred and payments properly made by the Trustee in the lawful performance of its functions under this Trust Deed will be payable or reimbursable by the Issuer on demand by the Trustee and:
 
11.4.1  
in the case of payments made by the Trustee prior to such demand will carry interest from the date on which the demand is made at the rate of 2 per cent. per annum over the base rate of HSBC Bank Plc on the date on which such payments were made by the Trustee; and
 
11.4.2  
in all other cases will carry interest at such rate from 30 days after the date on which the demand is made or (where the demand specifies that payment is to be made on an earlier date) from such earlier date.
 
11.5       
Indemnity
 
Subject to the provisions of Clause 13 ( Trustee Liable for Negligence ), the Issuer will indemnify the Trustee in respect of all liabilities and expenses properly incurred by it or by anyone appointed by it or to whom any of its functions may be delegated by it in the carrying out of its functions under this Trust Deed and against any loss, liability, cost, claim, action, demand or expense (including, but not limited to, all costs, charges and expenses paid or incurred in disputing or defending any of the foregoing) which any of them may incur or which may be made against any of them arising out of or in relation to or in connection with, its appointment or the proper exercise of its function.
 
 
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11.6       
Provisions Continuing
The provisions of Clauses 11.3 ( Expenses ), 11.4 ( Payment of Expenses ) and 11.5 ( Indemnity ) will continue in full force and effect in relation to the Trustee even if it may have ceased to be Trustee.
 
12.         
PROVISIONS SUPPLEMENTAL TO THE TRUSTEE ACT 1925
By way of supplement to the Trustee Act 1925 and the Trustee Act 2000 it is expressly declared as follows:
 
12.1       
Advice
The Trustee may act on the opinion or advice of or information obtained from, any expert (whether obtained by the Issuer, Ambac, the Trustee, the Principal Paying Agent, or any other person whatsoever) and which opinion or advice may be provided on such terms (including as to limitations on liability) as the Trustee may consider in its sole discretion to be consistent with prevailing market practice with regard to advice or opinions of that nature and will not be responsible to anyone for any loss occasioned by so acting. Any such opinion, advice or information may be sent or obtained by letter, telex or facsimile transmission and the Trustee will not be liable to anyone for acting in good faith on any opinion, advice or information purporting to be conveyed by such means even if it contains some error or is not authentic.
 
12.2       
Trustee to Assume Due Performance
The Trustee need not notify anyone of the execution of this Trust Deed or do anything to ascertain whether any Issuer Event of Default, Potential Issuer Event of Default, Restructuring Event, Negative Rating Event, Rating Downgrade or any event which could lead to the occurrence of or could constitute an Issuer Event of Default, a Potential Issuer Event of Default, a Restructuring Event, a Negative Rating Event or a Rating Downgrade has occurred and, until it has actual knowledge or express notice to the contrary, the Trustee may assume that no such event has occurred and that the Issuer is performing all of its obligations under this Trust Deed, the Bonds and the Coupons.
 
12.3       
Resolutions of Bondholders
The Trustee will not be responsible for having acted in good faith upon a resolution purporting to have been passed at a meeting of Bondholders in respect of which minutes have been made and signed even though it may later be found that there was a defect in the constitution of such meeting or the passing of such resolution or that such resolution was not valid or binding upon the Bondholders or the Couponholders.
 
12.4       
Certificate signed by a Director or Authorised Signatory
The Trustee may call for and may accept as sufficient evidence of any fact or matter or of the expediency of any act a certificate of the Issuer signed by any two Directors or Authorised Signatories of the Issuer or Ambac (as the case may be) as to any fact or matter upon which the Trustee may, in the exercise of any of its functions, required to be satisfied or to have information to the effect that, in the opinion of the person so certifying, any particular act is expedient and the Trustee need not call for further evidence and will not be responsible for any loss that may be occasioned by acting on any such certificate.
 
 
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12.5       
Custodians and nominees
The Trustee may appoint and pay any person to act as a custodian or nominee on any terms in relation to such assets of the trust as the Trustee may determine, including for the purpose of depositing with a custodian this Trust Deed or any document relating to the trust created hereunder and the Trustee shall not be responsible for any loss, liability, expense, demand, cost, claim or proceedings incurred by reason of the misconduct, omission or default on the part of any person appointed by it hereunder or be bound to supervise the proceedings or acts of any such person; the Trustee is not obliged to appoint a custodian if the Trustee invests in securities payable to bearer.
 
12.6        
Agents
Whenever it considers it expedient in the interests of the Bondholders, the Trustee may, in the conduct of its trust business, instead of acting personally, employ and pay an agent selected by it, whether or not a lawyer or other professional person, to transact or conduct, or concur in transacting or conducting, any business and to do or concur in doing all acts required to be done by the Trustee (including the receipt and payment of money). Provided it has exercised reasonable care in the selection of such agent, the Trustee will not be responsible to anyone for any misconduct or omission on the part of any such agent so employed by it or be bound to supervise the proceedings or acts of any such agent.
 
12.7       
Delegation
Whenever it considers it expedient in the interests of the Bondholders, the Trustee may delegate to any person and on any terms (including power to sub-delegate) all or any of its functions. If the Trustee exercises reasonable care in the selection of such delegate, it will not be under any obligation to supervise such delegate or be responsible for any loss, liability, cost, claim, action, demand or expense incurred by reason of any misconduct or default by any such delegate or sub-delegate.
 
12.8       
Forged Bonds
The Trustee will not be liable to the Issuer, Ambac or any Bondholder or Couponholder by reason of having accepted as valid or not having rejected any Bond or Coupon purporting to be such and later found to be forged or not authentic.
 
12.9        
Confidentiality
Unless ordered to do so by a court of competent jurisdiction the Trustee shall not be required to disclose to any Bondholder, Couponholder or Ambac any confidential financial or other information made available to the Trustee by the Issuer or any of its Subsidiaries.
 
 
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12.10     
Determinations Conclusive
Subject to Conditions 14 ( Enforcement ) and 15 ( Controlling Party ) and Clause 19 ( Controlling Party ), as between itself and the Bondholders and Couponholders the Trustee may determine all questions and doubts arising in relation to any of the provisions of this Trust Deed. Every such determination, whether made upon such a question actually raised or implied in the acts or proceedings of the Trustee, will be conclusive and shall bind the Trustee, Ambac, the Bondholders and the Couponholders.
  
12.11     
Currency Conversion
Where it is necessary or desirable to convert any sum from one currency to another, it will (unless otherwise provided hereby or required by law) be converted at such rate or rates, in accordance with such method and as at such date as may be specified by the Trustee but having regard to current rates of exchange, if available. Any rate, method and date so specified will be binding on the Issuer, the Bondholders and the Couponholders. This Clause 12.11 applies both to actual conversions and to notional conversions made for the purposes of establishing the equivalent of a sum in one currency in another currency.
 
12.12    
Issuer Events of Default
Subject to Conditions 10 ( Covenants by the Issuer to Ambac ), 11 ( Issuer Events of Default ) and 15 ( Controlling Party) and Clause 19 ( Controlling Party ), the Trustee may determine whether or not a default in the performance or observance by the Issuer of any of its obligations under this Trust Deed is in its opinion capable of remedy and/or whether or not any event is in its opinion materially adverse or prejudicial (as applicable) to the interests of the Bondholders. Any such determination will be conclusive and binding upon the Issuer, Ambac, the Bondholders and the Couponholders.
 
12.13     
Payment for and Delivery of Bonds
The Trustee will not be responsible for the receipt or application by the Issuer of the proceeds of the issue of the Bonds, the exchange of the Temporary Global Bond for the Permanent Global Bond or of the Permanent Global Bond for any definitive Bonds or the delivery of definitive Bonds to the persons entitled to them.
 
12.14     
Responsibility
The Trustee assumes no responsibility for the correctness of Recitals (A), (B) or (D) to this Trust Deed which shall be taken as statements by the Issuer and Ambac respectively, nor shall the Trustee by the execution of these presents be deemed to make any representation as to the validity, sufficiency or enforceability of this Trust Deed or any part thereof and makes no representation with respect thereto.
 
12.15     
Trustee's discretion
Save as expressly otherwise provided in this Trust Deed (including the Conditions), the Trustee shall have absolute and uncontrolled discretion as to the exercise or non-exercise of its trusts, powers, authorities and discretions under these presents (the exercise or non-exercise of which as between the Trustee, the Bondholders and the Couponholders shall be conclusive and binding on Ambac, the Bondholders and Couponholders) and, subject to Clause 13 ( Trustee Liable for Negligence ), shall not be responsible for any loss, liability, cost, claim, action, demand, expense or inconvenience which may result from their exercise or non-exercise.
 
 
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12.16     
Consents
Save as expressly otherwise provided in this Trust Deed (including the Conditions), any consent or approval given by the Trustee for the purposes of this Trust Deed may be given on such terms and subject to such conditions (if any) as the Trustee thinks fit and notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Trust Deed may be given retrospectively.
 
12.17     
Professional Charges
Any trustee of this Trust Deed being a lawyer, accountant, broker or other person engaged in any professional or business shall be entitled to charge and be paid all usual professional and other charges for business transacted and acts done by him or his firm in connection with the trusts of this Trust Deed and also his reasonable charges in addition to disbursements for all other work and business done and all time spent by him or his firm in connection with matters arising in connection with this Trust Deed.
 
12.18     
Bondholders as a class
In connection with the exercise of its trusts, powers or discretions (including but not limited to those in relation to any proposed modification, waiver, authorisation, or substitution) the Trustee shall have regard to the general interests of the Bondholders as a class and, in particular, but without limitation, shall not have regard to the consequences of such exercise for individual Bondholders and Couponholders resulting from their being for any purpose domiciled or resident in, or otherwise connected with, or subject to the jurisdiction of, any particular territory and the Trustee shall not be entitled to require, nor shall any Bondholder or Couponholder be entitled to claim, from the Issuer, Ambac or the Trustee any indemnification or payment in respect of any tax consequences of any such exercise upon individual Bondholders or Couponholders except to the extent provided for in Condition 8 ( Taxation ) and/or any undertaking given in addition to, or in substitution for, Condition 8 ( Taxation ) pursuant to this Trust Deed.
 
12.19     
Ratings
The Trustee shall have no responsibility for the maintenance of any rating of the Bonds by any rating agency or any other person.
 
12.20     
Validity of documents
The Trustee shall not be responsible for, or for investigating any matter which is the subject of, any recital, statement, representation, warranty or covenant of any person contained in this Trust Deed, the Bonds, or any other agreement or document relating to the transactions herein or therein contemplated or for the execution, delivery, legality, effectiveness, adequacy, genuineness, validity enforceability or admissibility in evidence of this Trust Deed or any other document relating or expressed to be supplemental thereto and shall not be liable for any failure to obtain any licence, consent or other authority for the execution, delivery, legality, effectiveness, adequacy, genuineness, validity, performance, enforceability or admissibility in evidence of this Trust Deed or any other document relating to or expressed to be supplemental thereto.
 
 
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12.21     
Disapplication
Section 1 of the Trustee Act 2000 shall not apply to the duties of the Trustee in relation to the trusts constituted by this Trust Deed. Where there are any inconsistencies between the Trustee Acts and the provisions of this Trust Deed, the provisions of this Trust Deed shall, to the extent allowed by law, prevail and, in the case of any such inconsistency with the Trustee Act 2000, the provisions of this Trust Deed shall constitute a restriction or exclusion for the purposes of that Act.
 
13.         
TRUSTEE LIABLE FOR NEGLIGENCE
Nothing in this Trust Deed shall in any case in which the Trustee has failed to show the degree of care and diligence required of it as trustee, having regard to the provisions of this Deed, relieve or indemnify it from or against any liability which by virtue of any rule of law would otherwise attach to it in respect of any negligence, default, breach of duty or breach of trust of which it may be guilty.
 
14.         
WAIVER
 
14.1       
Waiver
Subject to Condition 15 ( Controlling Party ) and Clause 19 ( Controlling Party ), the Trustee may, other than in respect of the matters detailed in the proviso to paragraph 19 of Schedule 5 ( Provisions for Meetings of Bondholders ) subject to the prior written consent of Ambac (if Ambac is then the Controlling Party), without the consent of the Bondholders or Couponholders and without prejudice to its rights in respect of any subsequent breach, from time to time and at any time, if in its opinion the interests of the Bondholders will not be materially prejudiced thereby, waive or authorise, on such terms and conditions as seems expedient to it, any breach or proposed breach by the Issuer of any of the provisions of this Trust Deed or the Bonds or determine that any event, condition or act which would otherwise be an Issuer Event of Default or Potential Issuer Event of Default will not be treated as such provided that where the Trustee is the Controlling Party, it will not do so in contravention of any express direction given by any Extraordinary Resolution or a written request made pursuant to Condition 11 ( Issuer Events of Default ) but no such direction or request will affect any previous waiver, authorisation or determination. Any such waiver, authorisation or determination will be binding on the Bondholders and the Couponholders and, if the Trustee so requires, will be notified to the Bondholders as soon as practicable.
 
14.2       
Enforcement Proceedings
At any time after amounts in respect of principal of and interest on the Bonds or amounts payable by Ambac under the Financial Guarantee shall have become due and payable but are unpaid, the Trustee may, at its discretion, and without further notice but subject as mentioned below, take such proceedings against, respectively:
 
 
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14.2.1      
the Issuer as it may think fit to enforce the provisions of this Trust Deed in accordance with the terms hereof; and/or
 
14.2.2      
Ambac as it may think fit to enforce the provisions of the Financial Guarantee.
 
If the Trustee is not the Controlling Party it shall not be permitted to take any such proceedings as are referred to in Clause 15.2.1 above against the Issuer unless it has been directed by the Controlling Party to do so and shall only be bound to take proceedings against the Issuer at the direction of the Controlling Party if it has been indemnified to its satisfaction by the Controlling Party. If the Trustee is the Controlling Party, it shall only be bound to take proceedings pursuant to Clause 15.2.1. or 15.2.2 if it has been indemnified to its satisfaction by the Bondholders and it has been so requested in writing by the holders of not less than 25 per cent. of the principal amount outstanding of the Bonds or has been so directed by an Extraordinary Resolution.
  
14.3       
No action by Bondholders or Couponholders
Subject as provided in this Trust Deed (including the Conditions) only the Trustee may pursue the remedies available under general law or under this Trust Deed to enforce the rights of the Bondholders or Couponholders and no such holder will be entitled to proceed against the Issuer or Ambac unless the Trustee, having become bound to act in accordance with the terms of this Trust Deed, fails to do so and such failure is continuing. If, in connection with any insolvency, bankruptcy, administration, dissolution, liquidation or analogous procedure relating to the Issuer, a payment on the Bonds by the Issuer is claimed to be or is avoided as a preferential transfer, Ambac may ( provided that Ambac is then the Controlling Party) direct all matters relating to such claim or avoidance on behalf of the Trustee, the Bondholders and the Couponholders.
 
15.         
TRUSTEE NOT PRECLUDED FROM ENTERING INTO CONTRACTS
No person, whether acting for itself or in any other capacity, will be precluded from becoming the owner of, or acquiring any interest in, holding or disposing of any Bond or Coupon or any shares or securities of the Issuer or any of its subsidiary, holding or associated companies with the same rights as it would have had if the Trustee were not Trustee or from entering into or being interested in any contracts or transactions with the Issuer or its subsidiary, holding or associated companies or from acting on, or as depositary or agent for, any committee or body of holders of any securities of the Issuer or its subsidiary, holding or associated companies and will not be liable to account for any profit.
 
16.         
MODIFICATION AND SUBSTITUTION
The provision in this Clause 16 shall be subject to Condition 15 ( Controlling Party ) and Clause 19 ( Controlling Party ).
 
 
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16.1       
Modification
Subject to the prior written consent of Ambac (if Ambac is then the Controlling Party) the Trustee may, without the consent of the Bondholders or Couponholders, agree (i) to any modification to this Trust Deed or the Conditions or the Financial Guarantee which is of a formal, minor or technical nature or is made to correct a manifest error or (ii) other than in respect of the matters detailed in the proviso to paragraph 19 of Schedule 5 ( Provisions for Meetings of Bondholders ) to any modification to this Trust Deed, the Conditions or the Financial Guarantee which is in its opinion not materially prejudicial to the interests of the Bondholders. Any such modification shall be binding on the Bondholders and the Couponholders and, unless the Trustee agrees otherwise, the Issuer shall cause such modification to be notified to the Bondholders as soon as practicable thereafter in accordance with the Conditions. Notwithstanding the provisions of the foregoing, the Issuer and Ambac may, without the consent of the Bondholders or Couponholders, agree to any modification to Condition 10 ( Covenants by the Issuer to Ambac ) and to Clause 10 ( Covenants by the Issuer in favour of Ambac ) of this Trust Deed.
  
16.2        
Substitution
 
16.2.1      
The Trustee may, without the consent of the Bondholders or Couponholders, agree with the Issuer, but with the consent of Ambac (if Ambac is then the Controlling Party) (such consent not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed), to the substitution of any wholly-owned Subsidiary of the Issuer (the " Substituted Obligor ") in place of the Issuer (or of any previous substitute under this sub-clause 16.2.1 ) as the principal debtor under this Trust Deed, the Bonds and the Coupons provided that , in the opinion of the Trustee, the interests of the Bondholders will not be materially prejudiced thereby and also provided that :
 
(a)  
a trust deed is executed or some other form of undertaking is given by the Substituted Obligor to the Trustee, in form and manner satisfactory to the Trustee, agreeing to be bound by the terms of this Trust Deed, the Bonds and the Coupons with any consequential amendments which the Trustee may deem appropriate as fully as if the Substituted Obligor had been named in this Trust Deed and on the Bonds and Coupons as the principal debtor in place of the Issuer;
 
(b)  
where the Substituted Obligor is subject generally to the taxing jurisdiction of any territory or any authority of or in that territory having power to tax (the " Substituted Territory ") other than the territory to the taxing jurisdiction of which (or to any such authority of or in which) the Issuer is subject generally (the " Issuer's Territory' ) the Substituted Obligor will (unless the Trustee otherwise agrees) give to the Trustee an undertaking in form and manner satisfactory to the Trustee in terms corresponding to the terms of Condition 8 ( Taxation ) with the substitution for the references in that Condition to the Issuer's Territory of references to the Substituted Territory and Condition 7(c) ( Redemption for tax reasons ) shall be modified accordingly; and in such event the Trust Deed, the Bonds and the Coupons will be read accordingly;
 
 
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(c)  
if any two of the Directors of the Substituted Obligor certify that it will be solvent immediately after such substitution, the Trustee need not have regard to the financial condition, profits or prospects of the Substituted Obligor or compare them with those of the Issuer;
 
(d)  
the Issuer and the Substituted Obligor comply with such other requirements as the Trustee may direct in the interests of the Bondholders; and
 
(e)  
(unless the Issuer's successor in business is the Substituted Obligor) the obligations of the Substituted Obligor under this Trust Deed, the Bonds and the Coupons are unconditionally and irrevocably guaranteed by the Issuer in form and manner satisfactory to the Trustee.
 
16.2.2      
Release of Substituted Issuer : Any such agreement by the Trustee pursuant to this Clause 16.2 will, if so expressed, operate to release the Issuer (or any such previous substitute) from any or all of its obligations under this Trust Deed, the Bonds and the Coupons. Not later than 14 days after the execution of any such documents and after compliance with such requirements, notice of the substitution will be given to the Bondholders.
  
16.2.3      
Completion of Substitution : Upon the execution of such documents and compliance with such requirements, the Substituted Obligor will be deemed to be named in this Trust Deed and the Financial Guarantee and on the Bonds and Coupons as the principal debtor in place of the Issuer (or of any previous substitute under this Clause 16.2 ) and this Trust Deed, the Financial Guarantee, the Bonds and the Coupons will be deemed to be modified in such manner as shall be necessary to give effect to the substitution.
 
17.         
APPOINTMENT RETIREMENT AND REMOVAL OF THE TRUSTEE
 
17.1       
Appointment
The Issuer will have the power of appointing new trustees but no person will be so appointed unless previously approved by an Extraordinary Resolution of Bondholders and approved in writing by Ambac (if then the Controlling Party). A trust corporation will at all times be a Trustee and may be the sole Trustee. Any appointment of a new Trustee will be notified by the Issuer to the Bondholders as soon as practicable.
 
17.2      
Retirement and Removal
The Trustee may not resign its appointment unless a successor, willing to act in such capacity, has been appointed by the Issuer with the prior consent of Ambac (if Ambac is then the Controlling Party) and the Bondholders by Extraordinary Resolution, provided that the Trustee shall not be prevented from resigning its appointment if, having given notice in writing to the Issuer and Ambac (if Ambac is then the Controlling Party) of its intention to resign its appointment, a successor is not appointed within the period of three months from the date of such notice. The Bondholders may by Extraordinary Resolution remove any Trustee provided that the retirement or removal of any sole trustee or sole trust corporation will not become effective until a trust corporation is appointed as successor Trustee. If a sole trustee or sole trust corporation gives notice of retirement or an Extraordinary Resolution is passed for its removal under this Clause 17.2 , the Issuer will use its best endeavours to procure that another trust corporation be appointed as Trustee.
 
 
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17.3       
Co-Trustees
The Trustee may, despite Clause 17.1 ( Appointment ), by notice in writing to the Issuer appoint anyone to act as an additional Trustee jointly with the Trustee:
 
17.3.1      
if the Trustee considers such appointment to be in the interests of the Bondholders and/or the Couponholders;
 
17.3.2      
for the purpose of conforming with any legal requirement, restriction or condition in any jurisdiction in which any particular act is to be performed; or
 
17.3.3      
for the purpose of obtaining a judgment in any jurisdiction or the enforcement in any jurisdiction against the Issuer of either a judgment already obtained or any of the provisions of this Trust Deed.
 
Subject to the provisions of this Trust Deed the Trustee may confer on any person so appointed such functions as it thinks fit. The Trustee may by notice in writing to the Issuer and such person remove any person so appointed. At the request of the Trustee, the Issuer, as applicable, will forthwith do all things as may be required to perfect such appointment or removal and it irrevocably appoints the Trustee to be its attorney in its name and on its behalf to do so.
  
17.4      
Competence of a Majority of Trustees
If there are more than two Trustees the majority of such Trustees will (provided such majority includes a trust corporation) be competent to carry out all or any of the Trustee's functions.
 
18.         
COUPONS
 
18.1      
Notices
Neither the Trustee nor the Issuer need give any notice to the Couponholders and the Couponholders will be deemed to have notice of the contents of any notice given to the Bondholders in accordance with the Conditions.
 
18.2      
Bondholders assumed to hold Coupons
Even if it has express notice to the contrary, whenever the Trustee is required to exercise any of its functions by reference to the interests of the Bondholders, the Trustee will assume that each Bondholder is the holder of all Coupons appertaining to each Bond of which he is the bearer. The holders of Coupons shall be bound by and subject to the terms of this Trust Deed to the same extent as if they were Bondholders; provided that no holder of a Coupon shall have any right of action by virtue of this Trust Deed or its holding of such Coupon.
 
 
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19.         
CONTROLLING PARTY
 
Subject to (i) Ambac being at that time the Controlling Party and (ii) Ambac giving notice to the Trustee that it intends to exercise the Trust Rights, Ambac shall have exclusive control to exercise the Trust Rights or to direct the exercise of the Trust Rights (as applicable) without regard to the interests of any other person, and will not be a fiduciary or owe any fiduciary duties to any person under the Trust Deed and will be exclusively authorised to direct and refrain from directing, the Trustee under this Trust Deed in the exercise of the Trust Rights without regard to the interests of any other person, provided that such power shall not extend to permit Ambac (i) to exercise or direct the exercise of the Excluded Rights, which shall, so long as any of the Bonds remain outstanding, be exercisable by the Trustee in its sole discretion without regard to the provisions of Condition 15 or this Clause 19 , or (ii) to require any modification as is mentioned in the proviso to paragraph 19 of Schedule 5 ( Provisions for Meetings of Bondholders ).
 
20.        
CURRENCY INDEMNITY
 
20.1      
Currency of Account and Payment
Pounds sterling (the " Contractual Currency ") is the sole currency of account and payment for all sums payable by the Issuer under or in connection with this Trust Deed, the Bonds and the Coupons, including damages.
 
20.2      
Extent of discharge
Any amount received or recovered in a currency other than the Contractual Currency (whether as a result of, or of the enforcement of, a judgment or order of a court of any jurisdiction, in the winding-up or dissolution of the Issuer or otherwise), by the Trustee any Bondholder or Couponholder in respect of any sum expressed to be due to it from the Issuer will only constitute a discharge to the Issuer to the extent of the Contractual Currency amount which the recipient is able to purchase with the amount so received or recovered in that other currency on the date of that receipt or recovery (or, if it is not practicable to make that purchase on that date, on the first date on which it is practicable to do so).
 
20.3      
Indemnities
If that Contractual Currency amount is less than the Contractual Currency amount expressed to be due to the recipient under this Trust Deed, the Bonds or the Coupons, the Issuer will indemnify it against any loss sustained by it as a result. In any event, the Issuer will indemnify the recipient against the cost of making any such purchases.
 
20.4      
Indemnities separate
These indemnities constitute a separate and independent obligation from the other obligations in this Trust Deed, will give rise to a separate and independent cause of action, will apply irrespective of any indulgence granted by the Trustee and/or any Bondholder or Couponholder and will continue in full force and effect despite any judgment, order, claim or proof for a liquidated amount in respect of any sum due under this Trust Deed, the Bonds and/or the Coupons or any judgment or order. No proof of evidence of any actual loss may be required.
 
 
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20.5       
Merger
Any corporation into which the Trustee may be merged or converted or with which it may be consolidated, or any corporation resulting from any merger, conversion or consolidation to which the Trustee shall be a party, or any corporation succeeding to all or substantially all the corporate trust business of the Trustee, shall be the successor of the Trustee hereunder, provided such corporation shall be otherwise qualified and eligible under this Trust Deed, without the execution or filing of any paper or any futher act on the part of any of the parties hereto.
 
21.         
COMMUNICATIONS
 
Any communication shall be by letter or facsimile transmission:
 
21.1.1      
in the case of the Issuer, to it:
 
Lloyds Court
78 Grey Street
Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 6AF
 
Fax no: + 44 191 223 5142
Attention:   Finance Director
 
 
21.1.2      
in the case of Ambac, to it at:
 
Hasilwood House
60 Bishopsgate
London EC2N 4BE
 
Fax no.   020 7786 4343
Attention: General Counsel
  
21.1.3      
and in the case of the Trustee, to it at:
 
1 Grenville Street
St Helier
Jersey
JE4 9PF
 
Fax no.   +44 15 34 606159
Attention:   The Manager, Corporate Services
 
Any such communication will take effect, in the case of delivery, at the time of delivery or, in the case of telex or facsimile transmission, at the time of despatch.
 
Any communication not by letter shall be confirmed by letter but failure to send or receive the letter of confirmation shall not invalidate the original communication.
 
 
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22.         
GOVERNING LAW
 
This Trust Deed shall be governed by and construed in accordance with English law.
 
 
23.         
COUNTERPARTS
 
This Trust Deed may be executed in any number of counterparties and by the parties hereto on separate counterparts, each of which shall be an original, but all the counterparts shall together constitute one and the same instrument.
 
IN WITNESS WHEREOF this Trust Deed has been executed as a deed by the parties hereto and is intended to be and is hereby delivered the day and year first before written.
 
 
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SCHEDULE 1
 
Form of Temporary Global Bond
 
ANY UNITED STATES PERSON WHO HOLDS THIS OBLIGATION WILL BE SUBJECT TO LIMITATIONS UNDER THE UNITED STATES INCOME TAX LAWS, INCLUDING THE LIMITATIONS PROVIDED IN SECTIONS 165(j) AND 1287(a) OF THE INTERNAL REVENUE CODE.
 
YORKSHIRE ELECTRICITY DISTRIBUTION PLC
(incorporated with limited liability under
the laws of England and Wales with registered number 04112320)
 
£200,000,000
5.125 per cent. Bonds due 2035
 
TEMPORARY GLOBAL BOND
 
 
1.            
INTRODUCTION
 
This Temporary Global Bond is issued in respect of the £200,000,000 5.125 per cent. Bonds due 2035 (the " Bonds ") of Yorkshire Electricity Distribution plc (the " Issuer "). The Bonds are subject to, and have the benefit of, a trust deed dated 5 May 2005 (as amended or supplemented from time to time, the " Trust Deed ") between the Issuer, Ambac Assurance UK Limited (" Ambac ") and HSBC Trustee (C.I.) Limited as trustee (the " Trustee ", which expression includes all persons for the time being appointed trustee or trustees under the Trust Deed) and are the subject of a paying agency agreement dated 5 May 2005 (as amended or supplemented from time to time, the " Agency Agreement ") and made between the Issuer, HSBC Bank plc as principal paying agent (the " Principal Paying Agent ", which expression includes any successor principal paying agent appointed from time to time in connection with the Bonds), the other paying agent named therein (together with the Principal Paying Agent, the " Paying Agents ", which expression includes any successor or additional paying agents appointed from time to time in connection with the Bonds) and the Trustee.
 
2.            
REFERENCES TO CONDITIONS
 
Any reference herein to the " Conditions " is to the terms and conditions of the Bonds set out in Schedule 4 ( Terms and Conditions of the Bonds ) of the Trust Deed and any reference to a numbered " Condition " is to the correspondingly numbered provision thereof. Words and expressions defined in the Conditions shall have the same meanings when used in this Temporary Global Bond.
 
 3.           
PROMISE TO PAY
 
The Issuer, for value received, promises to pay to the bearer of this Temporary Global Bond the principal sum of
 
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£200,000,000
(One Hundred and Fifty Million Pounds Sterling)
 
on 5 May 2035 or on such earlier date or dates as the same may become payable in accordance with the Conditions, and to pay interest on such principal sum in arrear on the dates and at the rate specified in the Conditions, together with any additional amounts payable in accordance with the Conditions, all subject to and in accordance with the Conditions; provided, however, that such interest shall be payable only:
 
3.1  
in the case of interest falling due before the Exchange Date (as defined below), to the extent that a certificate or certificates issued by Euroclear Bank S.A./N.V. as operator of the Euroclear System (" Euroclear ") and/or Clearstream Banking, société anonyme , Luxembourg (" Clearstream, Luxembourg ") dated not earlier than the date on which such interest falls due and in substantially the form set out in Schedule 3 ( Form of Euroclear/Clearstream, Luxembourg Certification ) hereto is/are delivered to the Specified Office (as defined in the Conditions) of the Principal Paying Agent; or
 
3.2  
in the case of interest falling due at any time, to the extent that the Issuer has failed to procure the exchange for a permanent global bond of that portion of this Temporary Global Bond in respect of which such interest has accrued.
 
4.            
NEGOTIABILITY
 
This Temporary Global Bond is negotiable and, accordingly, title to this Temporary Global Bond shall pass by delivery.
 
5.          
EXCHANGE
 
On or after the day following the expiry of 40 days after the date of issue of this Temporary Global Bond (the " Exchange Date "), the Issuer shall procure (in the case of first exchange) the delivery of a permanent global bond (the " Permanent Global Bond ") in substantially the form set out in Schedule 2 ( Form of Permanent Global Bond ) to the Trust Deed to the bearer of this Temporary Global Bond or (in the case of any subsequent exchange) an increase in the principal amount of the Permanent Global Bond in accordance with its terms against:
 
5.1     
presentation and (in the case of final exchange) surrender of this Temporary Global Bond at the specified office of the Principal Paying Agent; and
 
5.2    
receipt by the Principal Paying Agent of a certificate or certificates issued by Euroclear and/or Clearstream, Luxembourg dated not earlier than the Exchange Date and in substantially the form set out in Schedule 3 ( Form of Euroclear/Clearstream, Luxembourg Certification ) hereto.
 
The principal amount of the Permanent Global Bond shall be equal to the aggregate of the principal amounts specified in the certificates issued by Euroclear and/or Clearstream, Luxembourg and received by the Principal Paying Agent; provided, however,   that in no circumstances shall the principal amount of the Permanent Global Bond exceed the initial principal amount of this Temporary Global Bond.
 
 
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6.           
WRITING DOWN
 
On each occasion on which:
 
6.1   
the Permanent Global Bond is delivered or the principal amount thereof is increased in accordance with its terms in exchange for a further portion of this Temporary Global Bond; or
 
6.2   
Bonds represented by this Temporary Global Bond are to be cancelled in accordance with Condition 7(e) ( Redemption and Purchase - Cancellation ),
 
the Issuer shall procure that (a) the principal amount of the Permanent Global Bond, the principal amount of such increase or (as the case may be) the aggregate principal amount of such Bonds and (b) the remaining principal amount of this Temporary Global Bond (which shall be the previous principal amount hereof less the aggregate of the amounts referred to in (a)) are noted in Schedule 1 ( Payments, Exchange and Cancellation of Bonds ) hereto, whereupon the principal amount of this Temporary Global Bond shall for all purposes be as most recently so noted.
 
 
7.           
PAYMENTS
 
All payments in respect of this Temporary Global Bond shall be made against presentation and (in the case of payment of principal in full with all interest accrued thereon) surrender of this Temporary Global Bond at the Specified Office of any Paying Agent and shall be effective to satisfy and discharge the corresponding liabilities of the Issuer in respect of the Bonds. On each occasion on which a payment of interest is made in respect of this Temporary Global Bond, the Issuer shall procure that the same is noted in Schedule 1 ( Payments, Exchange and Cancellation of Bonds ) hereto.
 
8.            
CONDITIONS APPLY
 
Until this Temporary Global Bond has been exchanged as provided herein or cancelled in accordance with the Paying Agency Agreement, the bearer of this Temporary Global Bond shall be subject to the Conditions and, subject as otherwise provided herein, shall be entitled to the same rights and benefits under the Conditions as if the bearer were the holder of Bonds in definitive form in substantially the form set out in Schedule 3 ( Form of Definitive Bond ) to the Trust Deed and the related interest coupons and talons for further interest coupons in the denominations of £50,000 and £100,000 and in an aggregate principal amount equal to the principal amount of this Global Bond.
 
9.            
NOTICES
 
Notwithstanding Condition 17 ( Notices ), while all the Bonds are represented by this Temporary Global Bond (or by this Temporary Global Bond and the Permanent Global Bond) and this Temporary Global Bond is (or this Temporary Global Bond and the Permanent Global Bond are) deposited with a common depositary for Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg, notices to Bondholders may be given by delivery of the relevant notice to Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg and, in any case, such notices shall be deemed to have been given to the Bondholders in accordance with the Condition 17 ( Notices ) on the date of delivery to Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg.
 
 
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10.         
AUTHENTICATION
 
This Temporary Global Bond shall not be valid for any purpose until it has been authenticated for and on behalf of HSBC Bank plc as principal paying agent.
 
11.         
GOVERNING LAW
 
This Temporary Global Bond and all matters arising from or connected with it are governed by, and shall be construed in accordance with, English law.
 
AS WITNESS the manual signature of a duly authorised person on behalf of the Issuer.
 
 
YORKSHIRE ELECTRICITY DISTRIBUTION PLC
 
 
By:      .    .............................
        ( duly authorised )
 
 
ISSUED on 5 May 2005
AUTHENTICATED for and on behalf of
HSBC Bank plc
as principal paying agent
without recourse, warranty or liability
 
 
By:         ..............................
             ( duly authorised )
 

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SCHEDULE 1
PAYMENTS, EXCHANGE AND CANCELLATION OF BONDS
 
 
Date of payment,
 delivery or
cancellation
 
 
Amount of interest
 then paid
 
 
Principal amount
of Permanent
Global Bond then
delivered or by
which Permanent Global Bond
then increased
 
 
Aggregate
 principal amount
 of Bonds then
 cancelled
 
 
Remaining
 principal  amount
 of this Temporary
 Global Bond
 
 
Authorised
 Signature
 
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
 

 

-40-


 
SCHEDULE 2
 
FORM OF ACCOUNTHOLDER'S CERTIFICATION
 
YORKSHIRE ELECTRICITY DISTRIBUTION PLC
(incorporated with limited liability under
the laws of England and Wales with registered number 04112320)
 
£200,000,000
 
5.125 per cent. Bonds due 2035
 
This is to certify that as of the date hereof, and except as set forth below, the above-captioned Securities held by you for our account (a) are owned by persons that are not citizens or residents of the United States, domestic partnerships, domestic corporations or any estate or trust the income of which is subject to United States Federal income taxation regardless of its source (" United States persons "), (b) are owned by United States person(s) that (i) are foreign branches of a United States financial institution (as defined in U.S. Treasury Regulations Section 1.165-12(c)(1)(iv)) (" financial institutions ") purchasing for their own account or for resale, or (ii) acquired the Securities through foreign branches of United States financial institutions and who hold the Securities through such United States financial institutions on the date hereof (and in either case (i) or (ii), each such United States financial institution hereby agrees, on its own behalf or through its agent, that you may advise the issuer or the issuer's agent that it will comply with the requirements of Section 165(j)(3)(A), (B) or (C) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and the regulations thereunder), or (c) are owned by United States or foreign financial institution(s) for purposes of resale during the restricted period (as defined in U.S. Treasury Regulations Section 1.163-5(c)(2)(i)(D)(7)), and in addition if the owner of the Securities is a United States or foreign financial institution described in clause (c) (whether or not also described in clause (a) or (b)) this is to further certify that such financial institution has not acquired the Securities for purposes of resale directly or indirectly to a United States person or to a person within the United States or its possessions.
 
If the Securities are of the category contemplated in Section 230.903(b)(3) of Regulation S under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the " Act "), then this is also to certify that, except as set forth below, the Securities are beneficially owned by (1) non-U.S. person(s) or (2) U.S. person(s) who purchased the Securities in transactions which did not require registration under the Act. As used in this paragraph the term " U.S. person " has the meaning given to it by Regulation S under the Act.
 
As used herein, " United States " means the United States of America (including the States and the District of Columbia); and its " possessions " include Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, Wake Island and the Northern Mariana Islands.
 
We undertake to advise you promptly by tested telex on or prior to the date on which you intend to submit your certification relating to the Securities held by you for our account in accordance with your operating procedures if any applicable statement herein is not correct on such date, and in the absence of any such notification it may be assumed that this certification applies as of such date.
 
 
-41-

 
This certification excepts and does not relate to £[ ] of such interest in the above Securities in respect of which we are not able to certify and as to which we understand exchange and delivery of definitive Securities (or, if relevant, exercise of any rights or collection of any interest) cannot be made until we do so certify.
  
We understand that this certification is required in connection with certain tax laws and, if applicable, certain securities laws of the United States. In connection therewith, if administrative or legal proceedings are commenced or threatened in connection with which this certification is or would be relevant, we irrevocably authorise you to produce this certification to any interested party in such proceedings.
 
 
Dated:
[                           ]
 
 
[name of account holder]
as, or as agent for,
the beneficial owner(s) of the Securities
to which this certificate relates.
 
 
By:
....................................
( Authorised signatory)
 

-42-


 
SCHEDULE 3
FORM OF EUROCLEAR/CLEARSTREAM, LUXEMBOURG CERTIFICATION
 
YORKSHIRE ELECTRICITY DISTRIBUTION PLC
(incorporated with limited liability under
the laws of England and Wales with registered number 04112320)
 
£200,000,000
 
5.125 per cent. Bonds due 2035
 
 
This is to certify that, based solely on certifications we have received in writing, by tested telex or by electronic transmission from member organisations appearing in our records as persons being entitled to a portion of the principal amount set forth below (our " Member Organisations ") substantially to the effect set forth in the temporary global bond issued in respect of the securities, as of the date hereof, £[ ] principal amount of the above-captioned Securities (a) is owned by persons that are not citizens or residents of the United States, domestic partnerships, domestic corporations or any estate or trust the income of which is subject to United States Federal income taxation regardless of its source (" United States persons "), (b) is owned by United States persons that (i) are foreign branches of United States financial institutions (as defined in U.S. Treasury Regulations Section 1.165-12(c)(1)(iv)) (" financial institutions ") purchasing for their own account or for resale, or (ii) acquired the Securities through foreign branches of United States financial institutions and who hold the Securities through such United States financial institutions on the date hereof (and in either case (i) or (ii), each such United States financial institution has agreed, on its own behalf or through its agent, that we may advise the Issuer or the Issuer's agent that it will comply with the requirements of Section 165(j)(3)(A), (B) or (C) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and the regulations thereunder), or (c) is owned by United States or foreign financial institutions for purposes of resale during the restricted period (as defined in U.S. Treasury Regulations Section 1.163-5(c)(2)(i)(D)(7)), and to the further effect that United States or foreign financial institutions described in clause (c) (whether or not also described in clause (a) or (b)) have certified that they have not acquired the Securities for purposes of resale directly or indirectly to a United States person or to a person within the United States or its possessions.
 
If the Securities are of the category contemplated in Section 230.903(b)(3) of Regulation S under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the " Act "), then this is also to certify with respect to the principal amount of Securities set forth above that, except as set forth below, we have received in writing, by tested telex or by electronic transmission, from our Member Organisations entitled to a portion of such principal amount, certifications with respect to such portion substantially to the effect set forth in the temporary global bond issued in respect of the Securities.
 
We further certify (1) that we are not making available herewith for exchange (or, if relevant, exercise of any rights or collection of any interest) any portion of the temporary global security excepted in such certifications and (2) that as of the date hereof we have not received any notification from any of our Member Organisations to the effect that the statements made by such Member Organisations with respect to any portion of the part submitted herewith for exchange (or, if relevant, exercise of any rights or collection of any interest) are no longer true and cannot be relied upon as of the date hereof.
 
 
-43-

 
We understand that this certification is required in connection with certain tax laws and, if applicable, certain securities laws of the United States. In connection therewith, if administrative or legal proceedings are commenced or threatened in connection with which this certification is or would be relevant, we irrevocably authorise you to produce this certification to any interested party in such proceedings.
 
 
Dated:
[                         ]
 
 
Euroclear Bank S.A./N.V.
as operator of the Euroclear System
 
or
 
Clearstream Banking, société anonyme , Luxembourg
 
By:
   ....................................
( Authorised signatory )
 
 
-44-

 
SCHEDULE 2   
 
Form of Permanent Global Bond
 
ANY UNITED STATES PERSON WHO HOLDS THIS OBLIGATION WILL BE
SUBJECT TO LIMITATIONS UNDER THE UNITED STATES INCOME TAX LAWS,
INCLUDING THE LIMITATIONS PROVIDED IN SECTIONS 165(j) AND 1287(a) OF
THE INTERNAL REVENUE CODE.
 
YORKSHIRE ELECTRICITY DISTRIBUTION PLC
(incorporated with limited liability under
the laws of England and Wales with registered number 04112320)
 
£200,000,000
5.125 per cent. Bonds due 2035
 
PERMANENT GLOBAL BOND
 
1.            
INTRODUCTION
 
This Permanent Global Bond is issued in respect of the £200,000,000 5.125 per cent. Bonds due 2035 (the " Bonds ") of Yorkshire Electricity Distribution plc (the " Issuer "). The Bonds are subject to, and have the benefit of, a trust deed dated 5 May 2005 (as amended or supplemented from time to time, the " Trust Deed ") between the Issuer, Ambac Assurance UK Limited (" Ambac ") and HSBC Trustee (C.I.) Limited as trustee (the " Trustee ", which expression includes all persons for the time being appointed trustee or trustees under the Trust Deed) and are the subject of a paying agency agreement dated 5 May 2005 (as amended or supplemented from time to time, the " Agency Agreement ") and made between the Issuer, HSBC Bank plc as principal paying agent (the " Principal Paying Agent ", which expression includes any successor principal paying agent appointed from time to time in connection with the Bonds), the other paying agent named therein (together with the Principal Paying Agent, the " Paying Agents ", which expression includes any successor or additional paying agents appointed from time to time in connection with the Bonds) and the Trustee.
 
2.            
REFERENCES TO CONDITIONS
 
Any reference herein to the " Conditions " is to the terms and conditions of the Bonds set out in Schedule 2 ( Terms and Conditions of the Notes ) hereto and any reference to a numbered " Condition " is to the correspondingly numbered provision thereof. Words and expressions defined in the Conditions shall have the same meanings when used in this Global Bond.
 
 
-45-

 
3.            
PROMISE TO PAY
 
The Issuer, for value received, promises to pay to the bearer of this Global Bond, in respect of each Bond represented by this Global Bond, its principal amount on 4 May 2035 or on such earlier date or dates as the same may become payable in accordance with the Conditions, and to pay interest on each such Bond on the dates and in the manner specified in the Conditions, together with any additional amounts payable in accordance with the Conditions, all subject to and in accordance with the Conditions. The Issuer shall procure that the initial aggregate principal amount of Bonds represented by this Global Bond is noted in Schedule 1 ( Payments, Exchanges against Temporary Global Bond, Delivery of Definitive Notes and Cancellation of Notes ) hereto, whereupon the principal amount of this Global Bond shall for all purposes be such amount, subject as provided in paragraph 7 ( Writing Down ) and paragraph 8 ( Writing Up ) below.
 
4.            
NEGOTIABILITY
 
This Global Bond is negotiable and, accordingly, title to this Global Bond shall pass by delivery.
 
5.           
EXCHANGE
 
5.1.1       
This Global Bond will be exchanged, in whole but not in part only, for Bonds in definitive form ("Definitive Notes") in substantially the form set out in Schedule 3 ( Form of Definitive Bond ) to the Trust Deed if any of the events specified in Clause 3.3 ( Exchange for Definitive Bonds ) of the Trust Deed occurs.
 
6.           
DELIVERY OF DEFINITIVE NOTES
 
Whenever this Global Bond is to be exchanged for Definitive Bonds, the Issuer shall procure the prompt delivery of such Definitive Bonds, duly authenticated and with interest coupons (" Coupons ") and talons for further Coupons (" Talons ") attached, in an aggregate principal amount equal to the principal amount of this Global Bond to the bearer of this Global Bond against the surrender of this Global Bond at the Specified Office (as defined in the Conditions) of the Principal Paying Agent within 30 days of the occurrence of the relevant Exchange Event.
 
7.             
WRITING DOWN
 
On each occasion on which:
 
7.1         
a payment of principal is made in respect of this Global Bond;
 
7.2         
Definitive Bonds are delivered; or
 
7.3         
Bonds represented by this Global Bond are to be cancelled in accordance with Condition 7(e) ( Redemption and Purchase - Cancellation ),
 
the Issuer shall procure that (i) the amount of such payment and the aggregate principal amount of such Bonds and (ii) the remaining principal amount of this Global Bond (which shall be the previous principal amount hereof less the aggregate of the amounts referred to in (i) above) are noted in Schedule 1 ( Payments, Exchanges against Temporary Global Bond, Delivery of Definitive Notes and Cancellation of Notes ) hereto, whereupon the principal amount of this Global Bond shall for all purposes be as most recently so noted.
 
-46-

 
8.            
WRITING UP
 
If this Global Bond was originally issued in exchange for part only of a temporary global bond representing the Bonds, then all references in this Global Bond to its principal amount shall be construed as references to the principal amount of the part of the temporary global bond in exchange for which this Global Bond was originally issued which the Issuer shall procure is noted in Schedule 1 ( Payments, Exchanges against Temporary Global Bond, Delivery of Definitive Notes and Cancellation of Notes ) hereto. If at any subsequent time any further portion of such temporary global bond is exchanged for an interest in this Global Bond, the principal amount of this Global Bond shall be increased by the amount of such further portion, and the Issuer shall procure that the principal amount of this Global Bond (which shall be the previous principal amount hereof plus the amount of such further portion) is noted in Schedule 1 ( Payments, Exchanges against Temporary Global Bond, Delivery of Definitive Notes and Cancellation of Notes ) hereto, whereupon the principal amount of this Global Bond shall for all purposes be as most recently so noted.
 
 
9.            
PAYMENTS
 
All payments in respect of this Global Bond shall be made against presentation and (in the case of payment of principal in full with all interest accrued thereon) surrender of this Global Bond at the specified office of any Paying Agent and shall be effective to satisfy and discharge the corresponding liabilities of the Issuer in respect of the Bonds. On each occasion on which a payment of interest is made in respect of this Global Bond, the Issuer shall procure that the same is noted in Schedule 1 ( Payments, Exchanges against Temporary Global Bond, Delivery of Definitive Notes and Cancellation of Notes ) hereto.
 
10.          
CONDITIONS APPLY
 
Until this Global Bond has been exchanged as provided herein or cancelled in accordance with the Paying Agency Agreement, the bearer of this Global Bond shall be subject to the Conditions and, subject as otherwise provided herein, shall be entitled to the same rights and benefits under the Conditions as if it were the holder of Definitive Bonds and the related, Talons and Coupons in the denominations of £50,000 and £100,000 and in an aggregate principal amount equal to the principal amount of this Global Bond.
 
 
-47-

 
11.          
EXERCISE OF PUT OPTION
 
In order to exercise the option contained in Condition 13 ( Restructuring Event ) (the " Put Option "), the bearer of this Global Bond must, within the period specified in the Conditions for the deposit of the relevant Bond and Put Event Notice (as defined in Condition 13), give written notice of such exercise to the Principal Paying Agent specifying the principal amount of Bonds in respect of which the Put Option is being exercised. Any such notice shall be irrevocable and may not be withdrawn.
 
12.          
EXERCISE OF CALL OPTION
 
In connection with an exercise of the option contained in Condition 7(b) ( Redemption at the option of the Issuer ) in relation to some only of the Bonds, this Global Bond may be redeemed in part in the principal amount specified by the Issuer in accordance with the Conditions and the Bonds to be redeemed will be selected as provided in the Conditions.
 
13.          
NOTICES
 
Notwithstanding Condition 17 ( Notices ), while all the Bonds are represented by this Global Bond (or by this Global Bond and a temporary global bond) and this Global Bond is (or this Global Bond and a temporary global bond are) deposited with a common depositary for Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg, notices to Bondholders may be given by delivery of the relevant notice to Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg and, in any case, such notices shall be deemed to have been given to the Bondholders in accordance with the Condition 17 ( Notices ) on the date of delivery to Euroclear and Clearstream, Luxembourg.
 
14.         
AUTHENTICATION
 
This Global Bond shall not be valid for any purpose until it has been authenticated for and on behalf of   HSBC Bank plc as principal paying agent.
 
15.          
GOVERNING LAW
 
This Global Bond and all matters arising from or connected with it are governed by, and shall be construed in accordance with, English law.
 
AS WITNESS the manual signature of a duly authorised person on behalf of the Issuer.
 
YORKSHIRE ELECTRICITY DISTRIBUTION PLC
 
By:       ..............................
       (duly authorised)
  
 
ISSUED as of 5 May 2005
 
 
-48-

 
 
AUTHENTICATED for and on behalf of
HSBC Bank plc
as principal paying agent
without recourse, warranty or liability
 
By:      ..............................
      (duly authorised)
 

-49-


 
SCHEDULE 1
Payments, Exchanges against Temporary Global Bond, Delivery of Definitive
Notes and Cancellation of Notes
 
 
 
Date of payment, exchange, delivery
 or cancellation
 
 
Amount of interest then paid
 
 
Principal amount
 of Temporary
 Global Bond then exchanged
 
 
Aggregate
 principal amount of Definitive Notes
 then delivered
 
 
Aggregate
 principal amount
 of Notes then cancelled
 
 
New principal
 amount of this
 Global Bond
 
 
Authorised
 signature
 
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
 

-50-


 
SCHEDULE 2
 
TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE NOTES
 
 

-51-

 
 
SCHEDULE 3   
 
Form of Definitive Bond
 
[On the face of the Note:]
 
[ currency ][ denomination ]
 
 
ANY UNITED STATES PERSON WHO HOLDS THIS OBLIGATION WILL BE SUBJECT TO LIMITATIONS UNDER THE UNITED STATES INCOME TAX LAWS, INCLUDING
THE LIMITATIONS PROVIDED IN SECTIONS 165(j) AND 1287(a) OF THE INTERNAL REVENUE CODE.
 
YORKSHIRE ELECTRICITY DISTRIBUTION PLC
(incorporated with limited liability under
the laws of England and Wales with registered number 04112320)
 
£200,000,000
5.125 per cent. Bonds due 2035
 
The Issuer, for value received, promises to pay to the bearer the principal sum of
 
£[50,000][100,000]
 
([FIFTY]/[ONE HUNDRED] THOUSAND POUNDS)
 
on 4 May 2035, or on such earlier date or dates as the same may become payable in accordance with the conditions endorsed hereon (the " Conditions "), and to pay interest on such principal sum in arrear on the dates and at the rate specified in the Conditions, together with any additional amounts payable in accordance with the Conditions, all subject to and in accordance with the Conditions.
 
Interest is payable on the above principal sum at the rate of 5.125 per cent. per annum, payable annually in arrear on 4 May in each year, all subject to and in accordance with the Conditions.
 
This Bond and the interest coupons and talons relating hereto shall not be valid for any purpose until this Bond has been authenticated for and on behalf of HSBC Bank plc as principal paying agent.
 
AS WITNESS the facsimile signature of a duly authorised person on behalf of the Issuer.
 
YORKSHIRE ELECTRICITY DISTRIBUTION PLC
 
 
By:        ..............................
     [facsimile signature]
     (duly authorised)
 
 
-52-

 
 
ISSUED as of 5 May 2005
 
 
AUTHENTICATED for and on behalf of
HSBC Bank plc
as principal paying agent
without recourse, warranty or liability
 
By:      ..............................
     [ manual signature ]
     (duly authorised)
 
 

 

-53-


 
[On the reverse of the Note:]
 
 
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
 
[As set out in Schedule 4 ( Terms and Conditions of the Bonds ) of the Trust Deed]
 
[At the foot of the Terms and Conditions:]
 
 
PRINCIPAL PAYING AGENT
 
HSBC Bank plc
Level 24
8 Canada Square
London E14 5HQ
 
 

PAYING AGENT
 
Dexia Banque Internationale à Luxembourg société anonyme
69, route d'Esch
L-2953 Luxembourg
 
 
 
-54-


 
Form of Coupon
 
[On the face of the Coupon:]
 
YORKSHIRE ELECTRICITY DISTRIBUTION PLC
£200,000,000 5.125 per cent. Bonds due 2035
 
Coupon for £[ amount of interest payment ] due on [ interest payment date ].
 
Such amount is payable, subject to the terms and conditions (the " Conditions ") endorsed on the Bond to which this Coupon relates (which are binding on the holder of this Coupon whether or not it is for the time being attached to such Bond), against presentation and surrender of this Coupon at the specified office for the time being of any of the agents shown on the reverse of this Coupon (or any successor or additional agents appointed from time to time in accordance with the Conditions).
 
ANY UNITED STATES PERSON WHO HOLDS THIS OBLIGATION WILL BE SUBJECT TO LIMITATIONS UNDER THE UNITED STATES INCOME TAX LAWS, INCLUDING THE LIMITATIONS PROVIDED IN SECTIONS 165(j) AND 1287(a) OF THE INTERNAL REVENUE CODE.
 
 
[On the reverse of the Coupon:]
 
Principal Paying Agent: HSBC Bank plc, Level 24, 8 Canada Square, London E14 5HQ
 
Paying Agents: Dexia Banque Internationale à Luxembourg société anonyme, 69, route d'Esch, L-2953 Luxembourg
 

-55-


 
Form of Talon
 
[On the face of the Talon:]
 
YORKSHIRE ELECTRICITY DISTRIBUTION PLC
£200,000,000 5.125 per cent. Bonds due 2035
 
Talon for further Coupons.
 
On or after the maturity date of the final Coupon which is (or was at the time of issue) part of the Coupon Sheet to which this Talon is (or was at the time of issue) attached, this Talon may be exchanged at the specified office for the time being of the principal paying agent shown on the reverse of this Talon (or any successor principal paying agent appointed from time to time in accordance with the terms and conditions (the " Conditions ") of the Bonds to which this Talon relates) for a further Coupon Sheet (including a further Talon but excluding any Coupons in respect of which claims have already become void pursuant to the Conditions).
 
The Bond to which this Talon relates may, in certain circumstances specified in the Conditions, fall due for redemption before the maturity date of such final Coupon. In such event, this Talon shall become void and no Coupon will be delivered in respect hereof.
 
ANY UNITED STATES PERSON WHO HOLDS THIS OBLIGATION WILL BE SUBJECT TO LIMITATIONS UNDER THE UNITED STATES INCOME TAX LAWS, INCLUDING THE LIMITATIONS PROVIDED IN SECTIONS 165(j) AND 1287(a) OF THE INTERNAL REVENUE CODE.
 
 
[On the reverse of the Talon:]
 
Principal Paying Agent: HSBC Bank plc, Level 24, 8 Canada Square, London E14 5HQ
 
Paying Agents: Dexia Banque Internationale à Luxembourg société anonyme, 69, route d'Esch, L-2953 Luxembourg
 
 
-56-

 
SCHEDULE 4   
 
 
TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE BONDS
 
 
The £200,000,000 5.125 per cent. Bonds due 2035 (the " Bonds ", which expression shall, unless the context otherwise requires, include any Further Bonds (as defined in Condition 3 ( Definitions )) of Yorkshire Electricity Distribution plc (the " Issuer ") are constituted by and subject to a trust deed dated 5 May 2005 (as the same may be amended and/or supplemented from time to time, the " Trust Deed ") between the Issuer, Ambac Assurance UK Limited (" Ambac ") and HSBC Trustee (C.I.) Limited (the " Trustee ", which expression shall, wherever the context so admits, include its successors as trustee under the Trust Deed) as trustee for the holders of the Bonds (the " Bondholders "). The Bonds are unconditionally and irrevocably guaranteed as to scheduled payments of principal and interest and in respect of certain additional amounts in respect of United Kingdom withholding taxes pursuant to a financial guarantee dated 5 May 2005 (the " Financial Guarantee ") issued by Ambac to the Trustee. The statements in these Terms and Conditions include summaries of and are subject to, the detailed provisions of the Trust Deed. Copies of the Trust Deed and the Paying Agency Agreement dated   5 May 2005 (the " Paying Agency Agreement ") between the Issuer, Ambac, the Paying Agents referred to below and the Trustee will be available for inspection by Bondholders and the holders of the interest coupons appertaining to the Bonds (respectively, the " Couponholders " and the " Coupons ") at the registered office for the time being of the Trustee, being as of the date hereof at 1 Grenville Street, St. Helier, Jersey, JE4 9PF and at the specified office(s) of each of the Paying Agents. The Bondholders and the Couponholders are entitled to the benefit of, are bound by, and are deemed to have notice of, all the provisions of the Trust Deed and the provisions of the Paying Agency Agreement applicable to them.
 
1.          
Form, Denomination and Title
 
The Bonds are serially numbered and in bearer form in the denominations of £50,000 and £100,000 each with Coupons and talons (each, a " Talon ") for further Coupons attached on issue, and title thereto and to the Coupons and Talons will pass by delivery. Bonds of one denomination may not be exchanged for Bonds of the other denomination. The holder of any Bond, Coupon or Talon will (except as otherwise required by law) be treated as its absolute owner for all purposes (whether or not it is overdue and regardless of any notice of ownership, trust, or any interest in it, any writing on it, or its theft or loss) and no person will be liable for so treating the holder. No person shall have any right to enforce any term or condition of the Bonds or the Trust Deed under the Contracts (Rights of Third Parties) Act 1999.
 

-57-

 
2.           
Status and Financial Guarantee
 
(a)        
Status of the Bonds
 
The Bonds and Coupons constitute direct, unconditional and (subject to the provisions of Condition 4 ( Negative Pledge )) unsecured obligations of the Issuer and rank pari passu and without any preference among themselves. The payment obligations of the Issuer under the Bonds and the Coupons shall, subject as aforesaid and save for such obligations as may be preferred by laws that are mandatory or of general application, at all times rank at least equally with all its present and future unsecured and unsubordinated obligations.
 
(b)        
Financial Guarantee
 
The Bonds have the benefit of the Financial Guarantee which has been issued by Ambac pursuant to a reimbursement and indemnity agreement to be dated on or about the Issue Date (as defined below) between the Issuer and Ambac (the " Reimbursement and Indemnity Agreement "). Pursuant to the Financial Guarantee, Ambac has unconditionally and irrevocably agreed to pay to the Trustee all sums due and payable but unpaid by the Issuer in respect of Scheduled Principal and Scheduled Interest (each as defined in these Conditions) (but excluding Default Interest (as defined in Condition 5 ( Interest ))) on the Bonds, all as more particularly described in the Financial Guarantee.
 
The terms of the Financial Guarantee provide that amounts of principal of any Bonds which have become immediately due and payable (whether by virtue of acceleration, prepayment or otherwise) other than on the final maturity date will not be treated as Guaranteed Amounts (as defined in Condition 3 ( Definitions )) which are Due for Payment (as defined in Condition 3 ( Definitions )) unless Ambac in its sole discretion elects to do so by notice in writing to the Issuer and the Trustee. If no such election is made, Ambac will continue to be liable to make payments in respect of the Bonds pursuant to the Financial Guarantee on the dates on which such payments would have been required to be made if such amounts had not become immediately due and payable.
 
To the extent that the Redemption Price (as defined in Condition 7 ( Redemption and Purchase )) payable on any early redemption of the Bonds exceeds the outstanding principal amount of any Bonds to be redeemed, payment of the excess is not guaranteed by Ambac under the Financial Guarantee.
 
-58-

 
(c)       
Status of Financial Guarantee
 
The Financial Guarantee provided by Ambac constitutes a direct, unsecured obligation of Ambac which will rank at least pari passu with all other unsecured obligations of Ambac, save for such obligations as may be preferred by provisions of law that are both mandatory and of general application.
 
(d)  
Subrogation of Ambac
 
The Trust Deed and the Financial Guarantee provide that Ambac shall be subrogated to any rights of the Bondholders and/or the Couponholders (as applicable) against the Issuer in respect of amounts due under the Bonds which have been paid by Ambac under the Financial Guarantee.
 
3.           
Definitions
 
" Ambac Event of Default " means any of the events set out in Condition 12 ( Ambac Events of Default ).
 
" Auditors " means the auditors for the time being of the Issuer or, in the event of their being unable or unwilling to carry out any action requested of them pursuant to the terms of the Trust Deed, such other firm of internationally recognised chartered accountants as the Issuer may select for the purpose.
 
" Business Day " means any day (other than a Saturday or Sunday) on which banks and other financial institutions are open for business in London.
 
" Calculation Date " means each of 30 June and 31 December in any year save that the first Calculation Date shall be 31 December 2005.
 
" Capital Investment " means expenditure of a capital nature.
 
" Capitalised Lease Obligations " means all lease obligations of the Issuer and its Subsidiaries which, under UK GAAP, are or will be required to be capitalised, in each case taken at the amount thereof accounted for as indebtedness in conformity with such principles.
 
" Cash Equivalents " means investments in sterling demand or time deposits, certificates of deposit and short term debt obligations (including commercial paper), synthetic sterling deposits, shares in money market liquidity funds or a guaranteed investment contract, provided that in all cases such investments have a maturity of not longer than nine months from the date of their acquisition subject to meeting the following credit criteria: (1) money market funds with a minimum credit rating of AAA or equivalent from any two Rating Agencies (or, in the case of shares in money market liquidity funds, from any single Rating Agency); (2) all other counterparties and other specific instruments with a minimum short term credit rating of A-1 from S&P or of P-1 from Moody's.
 
" Companies Act " means the Companies Act 1985 as amended or re-enacted from time to time and all subordinate legislation made pursuant thereto.
 
 
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" Controlling Party " at any time means Ambac unless an Ambac Event of Default has occurred and is continuing in which event, " Controlling Party " shall mean the Trustee.
 
" Currency or Interest Rate Agreement " means an agreement or transaction involving any currency or interest rate swap, cap or collar arrangement, forward exchange transaction, option, warrant, forward rate agreement, futures contract or other derivative instrument of any kind for the hedging or management of foreign exchange or interest rate risks.
 
" Distribution " means any dividend, distribution or payment (including by way of redemption, repurchase, retirement, return or repayment) in respect of the share capital of the Issuer.
 
" Due for Payment " means, in relation to principal or interest, that the Scheduled Payment Date for such amount has been reached. For the avoidance of doubt, " Due for Payment " does not refer to any earlier date upon which payment of any principal or interest may become due under the Bonds by reason of prepayment, acceleration of maturity or otherwise.
 
" EBIT " means, for the Relevant Period, the profit shown in the financial statements of the Issuer for that Relevant Period on the line entitled "profits on ordinary activities before interest":
 
(i)           
before taking into account any items treated as exceptional items;
 
(ii)          
after deducting the amount of any profit of any member of the Group which is attributable to minority interests;
 
(iii)         
after deducting the amount of any profit of any investment or entity (which is not itself a member of the Group) in which any member of the Group has an ownership interest to the extent that the amount of such profit included in the Issuer's financial statements exceeds the amount (net of applicable withholding tax) received in cash by members of the Group through distributions by such investment or entity;
 
(iv)        
before taking into account any realised and unrealised exchange gains and losses including those arising on translation of currency debt;
 
(v)        
before taking into account any gain or loss arising from an upward or downward revaluation of any asset,
 
in each case, to the extent added, deducted or taken into account, as the case may be, for the purposes of determining profits of the Issuer from ordinary activities before taxation (and without double counting).
 
" Electricity Act " means the Electricity Act 1989 as amended or re-enacted from time to time and all subordinate legislation made pursuant thereto.
 
" Electricity Distribution Licence " means the electricity distribution licence granted or treated as granted to the Issuer under section 6(1)(c) of the Electricity Act.
 
 
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" Energy Act " means the Energy Act 2004 as amended or re-enacted from time to time and all subordinate legislation made pursuant thereto.
 
" Energy Administrator " means a special energy administrator appointed pursuant to Part 3 of the Energy Act.
 
" Exchange Act " means the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
 
" Existing Negative Pledge " means the obligations contained in Condition 5 of the terms and conditions of Yorkshire Electricity Distribution plc's £200,000,000 9.25 per cent. Guaranteed Bonds due 2020.
 
" Final Proposals " means the final proposals document published by OFGEM for each electricity distribution price control review.
 
" Financial Indebtedness " means, at any time, the outstanding principal, capital or nominal amount and any fixed or minimum premium payable on prepayment or redemption of any indebtedness for or in respect of:
 
(i)           
moneys borrowed and debit balances with financial institutions;
 
(ii)          
any amount raised by acceptance under any acceptance credit facility;
 
(iii)         
any amount raised pursuant to any note purchase facility or the issue of bonds, notes, debentures, loan stock or any similar instrument;
 
(iv)        
the amount of any liability in respect of any lease or hire purchase contract which would, in accordance with UK GAAP, be treated as a finance or capital lease;
 
(v)        
receivables sold or discounted (other than any receivables to the extent they are sold on a non-recourse basis);
 
(vi)       
any counter-indemnity obligation in respect of a guarantee, indemnity, bond, standby or documentary letter of credit or any other instrument issued by a bank or financial institution (excluding any given in respect of trade credit arising in the ordinary course of business);
 
(vii)      
any amount raised by the issue of redeemable shares which are redeemable prior to 4 May 2035;
 
(viii)     
any amount raised under any other transaction (including any forward sale or purchase agreement) having the commercial effect of a borrowing; and
 
(ix)       
(without double counting) the amount of any liability in respect of any guarantee or indemnity for any of the items referred to in paragraphs (i) to (viii) above.
 
" Further Bonds " means all further bonds created and issued by the Issuer in accordance with Condition 20 ( Further Bonds ) and/or the time being outstanding or, as the context may require, a specific proportion thereof.
 
 
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" GIC " means (i) the investment agreement dated on or about 28 April 2005 between Ambac Capital Funding Inc, Ambac Assurance UK Limited and the Issuer and (ii) any other guaranteed investment contract or similar investment agreement with a maturity of 60 months or less from the date of purchase and which is provided by a counterparty which has or whose obligations under such guaranteed investment contract or other agreement are guaranteed by an entity that has a credit rating of at least AA- from S&P and Aa3 from Moody's.
 
" Group " means the Issuer and its Subsidiaries and "member of the Group" shall be construed accordingly.
 
" Guaranteed Amounts " means, with respect to any Scheduled Payment Date, the sum of (i) the interest (calculated in accordance with Condition 5 ( Interest )) due on the Bonds as of such Scheduled Payment Date and (ii) the principal due on the Bonds on such Scheduled Payment Date (net of any amount of premium or of such principal in excess of par).
 
" Incur " means, with respect to any Indebtedness, to incur, create, issue, assume or guarantee such Indebtedness.
 
" Indebtedness " means, for the purposes of Condition 10(a)(iii) only, with respect to the Issuer or any of its Subsidiaries at any date of determination (without duplication), (i) all Indebtedness for Borrowed Money, (ii) all obligations in respect of letters of credit or other similar instruments (including reimbursement obligations with respect thereto), (iii) all obligations to pay the deferred and unpaid purchase price of property or services, which purchase price is due more than six months after the date of placing such property in service or taking delivery and title thereto or the completion of such services, except trade payables, (iv) all Capitalised Lease Obligations, (v) all indebtedness of other persons secured by a mortgage, charge, lien, pledge or other security interest on any asset of the Issuer or any of its Subsidiaries, whether or not such indebtedness is assumed; provided that the amount of such Indebtedness shall be the lesser of (A) the fair market value of such asset at such date of determination and (B) the amount of the secured indebtedness, (vi) all indebtedness of other persons of the types specified in the preceding clauses (i) to (v) to the extent such indebtedness is guaranteed by the Issuer or any of its Subsidiaries, and (vii) to the extent not otherwise included in this definition, obligations under Currency or Interest Rate Agreements. The amount of Indebtedness at any date shall be the outstanding balance at such date of all unconditional obligations as described above and, upon the occurrence of the contingency giving rise to the obligation, the maximum liability of any contingent obligations of the types specified in the preceding clauses (i) to (vii) at such date; provided that the amount outstanding at any time of any Indebtedness issued with original issue discount is the face amount of such Indebtedness less the remaining unamortised portion of the original issue discount of such Indebtedness at such time as determined in conformity with UK GAAP.
 
" Indebtedness For Borrowed Money " means any indebtedness (whether being principal, premium, interest or other amounts) for (i) money borrowed, (ii) payment obligations under or in respect of any acceptance or acceptance credit, or (iii) any notes, bonds, debentures, debenture stock, loan stock or other debt securities offered, issued or distributed whether by way of public offer, private placing, acquisition consideration or otherwise and whether issued for cash or in whole or in part for a consideration other than cash.
 
 
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" Interest Cover " means, in respect of any Relevant Period, the ratio of EBIT for that Relevant Period to Net Finance Charges for that Relevant Period.
 
" Investment Grade Rating " means a credit rating assigned by a Rating Agency of BBB- (in the case of such ratings assigned by S&P) or Baa3 (in the case of such ratings assigned by Moody's) or the equivalents of such ratings for the time being, or better.
 
" Issue Date " means 5 May 2005.
 
" Issuer Event of Default " means any of the events set out in Condition 11 ( Issuer Events of Default ).
 
" Moody's " means Moody's Investors Service, Inc.
 
A " Negative Rating Event " shall be deemed to have occurred if (i) the Issuer does not, either prior to or no later than 14 days after the date of a Negative Certification (as defined in Condition 13 ( Restructuring Event )) in respect of the relevant Restructuring Event, seek, and thereupon use all reasonable endeavours to obtain, from a Rating Agency, a rating of the Reference Rated Securities or these Bonds or any other unsecured and unsubordinated debt of the Issuer having an initial maturity of five years or more or (ii) if it does so seek and use such endeavours, it is unable, as a result of such Restructuring Event, to obtain such a rating which is an Investment Grade Rating.
 
" Net Finance Charges " means, for any Relevant Period, the aggregate amount of interest paid on Senior Total Net Debt (net of interest received and after taking account of payments made and amounts received under any derivatives related to such Senior Total Net Debt) in respect of that Relevant Period.
 
" OFGEM " means the Gas and Electricity Markets Authority and/or the Office of Gas and Electricity Markets, including their successor office or body, as appropriate.
 
" Permitted Financial Indebtedness " means each and all of the following:
 
(i)           
Financial Indebtedness of the Issuer under the Bonds;
 
(ii)          
Financial Indebtedness of the Issuer outstanding on the Issue Date and not otherwise referred to in this definition of "Permitted Financial Indebtedness";
 
(iii)         
Financial Indebtedness which cannot and shall not be accelerated and/or repaid if any Issuer Event of Default has occurred and, in each case, is continuing;
 
(iv)        
Financial Indebtedness owed by one member of the Group to another member of the Group; and
 
(v)        
Financial Indebtedness of the Issuer from time to time which does not exceed an aggregate working capital amount of £75,000,000 (or the equivalent amount in one or more currencies).
 
 
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" Potential Issuer Event of Default " means an event or circumstance which would with the giving of notice and/or lapse of time and/or the issuing of a certificate become an Issuer Event of Default.
 
A " Put Event " occurs on the date of the last to occur of (i) a Restructuring Event, (ii) either a Rating Downgrade or, as the case may be, a Negative Rating Event, and (iii) the relevant Negative Certification.
 
" Rating Agency " means each of S&P and Moody's.
 
A " Rating Downgrade " shall be deemed to have occurred if the then current rating assigned to any Reference Rated Securities by both Rating Agencies (whether provided by a Rating Agency at the invitation of the Issuer or by its own volition) is withdrawn or reduced from an Investment Grade Rating to a non-Investment Grade Rating (BB+/Ba1, or their respective equivalents for the time being, or worse) or, if both Rating Agencies shall then have already assigned a non-Investment Grade Rating (as described above) to either of the Reference Rated Securities, both such ratings are lowered one full rating category.
 
" Reference Gilt " means, on any day, such sterling obligation of the United Kingdom Government listed on the Official List maintained by the Financial Services Authority in its capacity as the UK Listing Authority and traded on London Stock Exchange plc's market for listed securities whose duration most closely matches that of the Bonds on such day as the Trustee may from time to time determine to be appropriate on the advice of a gilt-edged market maker or other adviser selected by the Issuer and approved by the Trustee or in the event that the Issuer fails to select such person within a reasonable period of time, such person as the Trustee in its sole discretion may determine to be the most appropriate; and for which purpose duration shall mean Macauley Duration calculated on the basis of the formula set out on page 119 of The Handbook of Fixed Income Securities Second Edition 1987, published by Dow Jones-Irwin.
 
" Reference Rated Securities " means the £200,000,000 9.25 per cent. Guaranteed Bonds due 2020 of Yorkshire Electricity Distribution plc if at any time and for so long as they shall be outstanding and have a rating from a Rating Agency, and otherwise any other unsecured and unsubordinated debt of the Issuer having an initial maturity of five years or more which is rated by a Rating Agency.
 
" Regulated Asset Value " or " RAV " means the regulatory asset value of the Issuer, as set out in the most recent Final Proposals, adjusted for inflation, as of the 31 March nearest to the date on which the Issuer proposes to incur any further Financial Indebtedness other than Permitted Financial Indebtedness or to make any Distribution, provided that there shall be included in any determination of RAV the value of any assets which were included in RAV as at 31 March 2005 but which (i) subsequently are excluded from RAV by OFGEM, (ii) have become subject to a separate price control arrangement, and (iii) are still owned by the Issuer as of the date of determination of RAV, and provided further that if at any time OFGEM alters its methodology of determining RAV in a manner which results in a change in RAV, the Issuer and Ambac shall promptly in good faith negotiate appropriate adjustments to this definition (and to other terms defined or described herein solely for the purposes of this definition) so that the original intent of the undertakings set forth in Conditions 10(c), 10(d) and 10(e) is preserved and in the absence of agreement between the Issuer and Ambac within 60 days, such adjustments shall be determined by an independent accountant experienced in the regulated electricity distribution market selected by the Issuer.
 
 
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" Reimbursement and Indemnity Agreement " means the agreement so named between the Issuer and Ambac dated 5 May 2005.
 
" Relevant Indebtedness " means any indebtedness (whether being principal, premium, interest or other amounts) in the form of or represented by notes, bonds, debentures, debenture stock, loan stock or other securities, whether issued for cash or in whole or in part for a consideration other than cash, and which, with the agreement of the person issuing the same, are quoted, listed or ordinarily dealt in on any stock exchange or recognised over-the-counter or other securities market.
 
" Relevant Period " means each period of twelve months ending on a Calculation Date.
 
" Restructuring Event " means the occurrence of any one or more of the following events:
 
(i)  
(a) written notice being given to the Issuer of revocation of its Electricity Distribution Licence which is requisite to the conduct of the Issuer's business at the relevant time or (b) the Issuer agreeing in writing to any revocation or surrender of its Electricity Distribution Licence which is requisite to the conduct of the Issuer's business at the relevant time or (c) any legislation (whether primary or subordinate) being enacted terminating or revoking its Electricity Distribution Licence which is requisite to the conduct of the Issuer's business at the relevant time, except in any such case in circumstances where a licence or licences, is or are granted to the Issuer or a Subsidiary of the Issuer 100% of the ordinary share capital of which is owned directly or indirectly by the Issuer (the " Relevant Transferee ") and provided that the terms of such licence or licences are substantially no less favourable than the Electricity Distribution Licence in which event all references in these Terms and Conditions to the Electricity Distribution Licence and the Issuer in its capacity as holder of the Electricity Distribution Licence shall hereafter be deemed to be references to the licence or licences on substantially no less favourable terms and the Relevant Transferee respectively; or
 
(ii)  
any modification (other than a modification which is of a formal, minor or technical nature) being made to the terms and conditions of the Electricity Distribution Licence on or after the Issue Date unless two Directors of the Issuer have certified in good faith to the Trustee that the modified terms and conditions are not materially less favourable to the business of the Issuer. For the purposes of this paragraph (ii) a modification which (a) results in a licence or licences being granted to the Issuer or a Subsidiary of the Issuer 100% of the ordinary share capital of which is owned directly or indirectly by the Issuer (collectively, the " Applicable Transferees ") and provided that the terms of such licence are substantially no less favourable than the terms of the Electricity Distribution Licence or (b) results in a licence or licences being granted to an Applicable Transferee provided that the terms of such licence are substantially no less favourable than the terms of the Electricity Distribution Licence, shall not be deemed to be a modification within this paragraph (ii). In the event of such a modification as is referred to in (a) or (b), all references in these Terms and Conditions to the Electricity Distribution Licence and the Issuer in its capacity as holder of the Electricity Distribution Licence shall thereafter be deemed to be references to the licence or licences granted to the Applicable Transferee and to the Applicable Transferee, respectively; or
 
 
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(iii)  
any legislation (whether primary or subordinate) is enacted which removes, qualifies or amends (other than an amendment which is of a formal, minor or technical nature) the duties of the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (or any successor) and/or OFGEM under of the Electricity Act as in force on the Issue Date, unless two Directors of the Issuer have certified in good faith to the Trustee that such removal, qualification or amendment does not have a materially adverse effect on the financial condition of the Issuer.
 
" Restructuring Period " means:
 
(i)  
if at the time a Restructuring Event occurs there are Reference Rated Securities, the period of 90 days starting from and including the day on which the Restructuring Event occurs; or
 
(ii)  
if at the time a Restructuring Event occurs there are not Reference Rated Securities, the period starting from and including the day on which the Restructuring Event occurs and ending on the day 90 days following the later of (a) the date on which the Issuer shall seek to obtain a rating pursuant to the definition of Negative Rating Event prior to the expiry of the 14 days referred to in the definition of Negative Rating Event and (b) the date on which a Negative Certification shall have been given to the Issuer in respect of the Restructuring Event.
 
" S&P " means Standard & Poor's Ratings Services, a division of The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.
 
" Scheduled Payment Date " means (i) with respect to interest on the Bonds, each Interest Payment Date (as defined in Condition 5 ( Interest )) and (ii) with respect to principal of the Bonds, 4 May 2035.
 
" Security Interest " means a mortgage, charge, lien, pledge or other security interest.
 
" Senior Total Net Debt " means, at any time, the aggregate amount of all obligations of the Issuer for or in respect of Financial Indebtedness which ranks at least pari passu with the Bonds but:
 
(i)  
deducting the aggregate amount of all obligations of the Issuer in respect of Financial Indebtedness to the extent that the repayment or redemption of such Financial Indebtedness is provided for by the purchase by CE Electric UK Funding Company or any of its Subsidiaries of a GIC; and
 
 
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(ii)  
deducting the aggregate amount of freely available cash and Cash Equivalents held by the Issuer or any of its Subsidiaries at such time,
 
and so that no amount shall be excluded more than once.
 
" Subsidiary " means a subsidiary or subsidiary undertaking within the meaning of the Companies Act.
 
" UK GAAP " means generally accepted accounting principles in the United Kingdom.
 
" Utilities Act " means the Utilities Act 2000 as amended or re-enacted from time to time and all subordinate legislation made pursuant thereto.
 
4.          
Negative Pledge
 
So long as any of the Bonds remain outstanding (as defined in the Trust Deed), the Issuer will ensure that none of its Relevant Indebtedness or the Relevant Indebtedness of any of its Subsidiaries nor any guarantee given by it or by any of its Subsidiaries of the Relevant Indebtedness of any other person will be secured by a Security Interest upon, or with respect to, any of the present or future business, undertaking, assets or revenues (including any uncalled capital) of the Issuer or any of its Subsidiaries unless the Issuer shall, before or at the same time as the creation of the Security Interest, take any and all action necessary to ensure that:
 
(a)  
all amounts payable by the Issuer under the Bonds, the Coupons, the Trust Deed and the Reimbursement and Indemnity Agreement are secured to the satisfaction of the Controlling Party equally and rateably with the Relevant Indebtedness or guarantee of Relevant Indebtedness, as the case may be, by such Security Interest; or
 
(b)  
such other Security Interest or guarantee or other arrangement (whether or not including the giving of a Security Interest) is provided in respect of all amounts payable by the Issuer under the Bonds, the Coupons, the Trust Deed and the Reimbursement and Indemnity Agreement either (i) as the Trustee shall in its absolute discretion deem not materially less beneficial to the interests of the Bondholders, or (ii) as shall be approved by an Extraordinary Resolution (as defined in the Trust Deed) of the Bondholders, and (iii) (in either case) as Ambac shall in its absolute discretion deem not materially less beneficial to the interests of Ambac.
 
5.           
Interest
 
The Bonds bear interest (" Scheduled Interest ") from (and including) the Issue Date at the rate of 5.125 per cent. per annum payable annually in arrear on 4 May in each year (each, an " Interest Payment Date "). There will be a short first coupon in respect of the period from (and including) 5 May 2005 to (but excluding) 4 May 2006. Each Bond will cease to bear Scheduled Interest from the due date for redemption thereof, unless upon due presentation, payment of principal or premium (if any) is improperly withheld or refused. In such event, each Bond shall continue to bear interest (" Default Interest ") at such rate (both before and after judgment) until whichever is the earlier of (i) the day on which all sums due in respect of such Bond up to that day are received by or on behalf of the relevant holder and (ii) the day falling seven days after the Trustee or the Principal Paying Agent has notified Bondholders in accordance with Condition 17 ( Notices ) of receipt of all sums then due in respect of all the Bonds up to that seventh day (except to the extent that there is failure in the subsequent payment to the relevant holder under these Terms and Conditions). If Scheduled Interest or Default Interest is required to be calculated for a period of less than one year, it will be calculated on the basis of a 360 day year consisting of 12 months of 30 days each and, in the case of an incomplete month, the number of days elapsed.
 
Default Interest does not accrue on Default Interest. The payment of Default Interest is not guaranteed under the Financial Guarantee.
 
 
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6.           
Payments
 
Payments of principal, premium (if any) or interest in respect of the Bonds will be made against surrender of Bonds or, in the case of payments of interest due on an Interest Payment Date, against surrender of Coupons, at the specified office of any Paying Agent by a sterling cheque drawn on, or at the option of the holder, by transfer to a sterling account maintained by the payee with a branch of a bank in the City of London, subject in all cases to any fiscal or other laws and regulations applicable in the place of payment, but without prejudice to the provisions of Condition 8 ( Taxation ).
 
Upon the due date for redemption of any Bond, all unmatured Coupons and Talons relating to such Bond (whether or not attached) shall become void and no payment shall be made in respect of them. Where any Bond is presented for redemption without all unmatured Coupons and/or Talons relating to it, redemption shall be made only against the provision of such indemnity as the Issuer and Ambac may require.
 
If the due date for redemption of any Bond is not 4 May in any year, interest accrued in respect of such Bond from (and including) the last preceding 4 May will be paid only against presentation and surrender of such Bond.
 
If the due date for payment of any amount in respect of any Bond or Coupon is not a business day, then the holder thereof shall not be entitled to payment of the amount due until the next following business day nor to any further interest or other payment in respect of such delay. The expression " business day " in this Condition means a day other than a Saturday or Sunday on which banks are open for business in the place where the Bond or Coupon is presented and, in the case of payment by transfer to a sterling account as referred to above, in the City of London.
 
The names of the initial Principal Paying Agent and the other initial Paying Agents and their initial specified offices are set out at the end of these Terms and Conditions. The Issuer reserves the right, subject to the prior written approval of the Trustee and the Controlling Party, at any time to vary or terminate the appointment of any Paying Agent and to appoint additional or other Paying Agents provided that the Issuer will at all times maintain (a) a principal paying agent, (b) a paying agent in London and (c), if European Council Directive 2003/48/EC or any other Directive implementing the conclusions of the ECOFIN Council meeting of 26-27 November 2000 is brought into force, a paying agent in a member state of the European Union that will not be obliged to withhold or deduct tax pursuant to such Directive or any law implementing or complying with, or introduced to conform to, such Directive. Notice of any such termination or appointment and of any changes in the specified offices of the Paying Agents will be given to the Bondholders in accordance with Condition 17 ( Notices ) as soon as practicable thereafter. Under no circumstances will interest be payable in the United States of America or any possession of the United States of America.
 
 
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On or after the maturity date of the final Coupon which is (or was at the time of issue) part of a coupon sheet relating to the Bonds (each, a " Coupon Sheet "), the Talon forming part of such Coupon Sheet may be exchanged at the specified office of the Principal Paying Agent for a further Coupon Sheet (including, if applicable, a further Talon but excluding any Coupons in respect of which claims have already become void pursuant to Condition 9 ( Prescription )). Upon the due date for redemption of any Bond, any unexchanged Talon relating to such Bond shall become void and no Coupon will be delivered in respect of such Talon.
 
7.           
Redemption and Purchase
 
(a)  
Scheduled redemption : Unless previously redeemed, or purchased and cancelled, the Issuer will redeem the Bonds on 4 May 2035 at their outstanding principal amount (the " Scheduled Principal ").
 
(b)  
Redemption at the option of the Issuer : The Issuer may, having given not less than 30 nor more than 45 days' notice in accordance with Condition 17 ( Notices ) (which notice shall be irrevocable), redeem the whole or part (in principal amount of £5,000,000 or integral multiples thereof) of the Bonds at any time prior to 4 May 2035 at a price which shall be the higher of the following (the " Redemption Price "), together with Scheduled Interest accrued up to and including the date of redemption:
 
(i)       
par; and
 
(ii)      
that price, expressed as a percentage (rounded to three decimal places, 0.0005 being rounded upwards), at which the Gross Real Redemption Yield (calculated as described below) on the Bonds, if they were to be purchased at such price on the third dealing day prior to the due date for redemption, would be equal to the Gross Real Redemption Yield on such dealing day of the Reference Gilt, on the basis of the middle market price of the Reference Gilt prevailing at 11:00 a.m. on such dealing day, as determined by The Royal Bank of Scotland plc (or such other person as the Trustee may approve).
 
Any reference in these Terms and Conditions to principal shall be deemed to include any sum payable as the Redemption Price.
 
Notices of redemption will specify the date fixed for redemption, the applicable Redemption Price and, in the case of partial redemption, the aggregate principal amount of the Bonds to be redeemed, the serial numbers of the Bonds called for redemption, the serial numbers of the Bonds previously called for redemption and not presented for payment and the aggregate principal amount of the Bonds to remain outstanding after the redemption. No such notice of redemption may be given by the Issuer unless it shall have presented to the Trustee a certificate signed by two Directors of the Issuer (upon which the Trustee may rely absolutely) that it will have the funds, not subject to the interest of any other person, required to redeem the Bonds at the Redemption Price plus accrued interest on the date specified for redemption. Upon the expiry of any notice of redemption the Issuer shall be bound to redeem the Bonds called for redemption at the applicable Redemption Price. Any partial redemption of the Bonds shall be on the basis of selection by drawings (the method of such drawings to be approved by the Trustee in its absolute discretion).
 
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" Gross Real Redemption Yield " means a yield expressed as a percentage and calculated on a basis consistent with the basis indicated by the United Kingdom Debt Management Office publication "Formulae for calculating Gilt Prices from Yields" published on 8 June 1998 with effect from 1 November 1998, page 5.
 
(c)  
Redemption for tax reasons : If, as a result of any change in, or amendment to, the laws or regulations of the United Kingdom or any political sub-division of, or any authority in, or of, the United Kingdom having power to tax, or any change in the application or official interpretation of such laws or regulations, which change or amendment becomes effective after 29 April 2005, the Issuer has or will become obliged to pay additional amounts as provided or referred to in Condition 8 ( Taxation ) (and such amendment or change has been evidenced by the delivery by the Issuer to the Trustee and Ambac (who shall, in the absence of manifest error, accept such certificate as sufficient evidence thereof) of a certificate signed by two Directors of the Issuer stating that such amendment or change has occurred (irrespective of whether such amendment or change is then effective), describing the facts leading thereto and stating that such obligation cannot be avoided by the Issuer taking reasonable measures available to it) the Issuer may at its option, having given not less than 30 nor more than 60 days notice to the Bondholders in accordance with Condition 17 ( Notices ) (which notice shall be irrevocable), redeem all the Bonds (other than Bonds in respect of which the Issuer shall have given a notice of redemption pursuant to Condition 7(b) ( Redemption at the option of the Issuer ) prior to any notice being given under this Condition 7(c)), but not some only, at their outstanding principal amount together with interest accrued to (but excluding) the date of redemption, provided that no notice of redemption shall be given earlier than 90 days before the earliest date on which the Issuer would be required to pay the additional amounts were a payment in respect of the Bonds then due and provided further that no notice of redemption may be given by the Issuer unless two Directors of the Issuer shall have certified to the Trustee that it will have the funds, not subject to the interest of any other person, required to redeem the Bonds at their principal amounts outstanding plus accrued interest on the date specified for redemption (the Trustee being able to rely on such certificate absolutely).
 
 
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Under the terms of the Financial Guarantee, Ambac does not guarantee any of the amounts payable by the Issuer following an early redemption of the Bonds pursuant to Condition 7(b) ( Redemption at the option of the Issuer ) or 7(c) ( Redemption for tax reasons ). Ambac will not be obliged under any circumstances to accelerate payment under the Financial Guarantee; if it does so, the amount payable will be the par value of the Bonds together with accrued interest as at the date of acceleration. Any amount of principal on the Bonds in excess of par will not be guaranteed by Ambac under the Financial Guarantee.
 
(d)  
Purchase : The Issuer may at any time purchase or otherwise acquire Bonds (provided that all unmatured Coupons and Talons are attached thereto or are surrendered therewith) at any price in the open market or otherwise. If purchases are made by tender, tenders must be available to all Bondholders alike.
 
(e)  
Cancellation : All Bonds which are redeemed pursuant to this Condition by the Issuer shall be cancelled (together with all relative unmatured Coupons attached thereto or surrendered therewith) and accordingly may not be reissued or resold. Bonds purchased by or on behalf of the Issuer may be held or reissued or resold or surrendered for cancellation.
 
8.           
Taxation
 
(a)  
All payments in respect of the Bonds and Coupons by the Issuer shall be made without withholding or deduction for, or on account of, any present or future taxes, duties, assessments or governmental charges of whatever nature (" Taxes ") imposed or levied by or on behalf of the United Kingdom, or any political subdivision of, or authority in, or of, the United Kingdom having power to tax, unless the withholding or deduction of the Taxes is required by law. In that event, the Issuer will pay such additional amounts as may be necessary in order that the net amounts received by the Bondholders and Couponholders after the withholding or deduction shall equal the respective amounts which would have been receivable in respect of the Bonds or, as the case may be, Coupons in the absence of the withholding or deduction; except that no additional amounts shall be payable in relation to any payment in respect of any Bond or Coupon:
 
(i)       
to, or to a third party on behalf of, a holder who is liable to the Taxes in respect of the Bond or Coupon by reason of his having some connection with the United Kingdom other than the mere holding of the Bond or Coupon; or
 
(ii)      
presented for payment in the United Kingdom; or
 
(iii)     
to, or to a third party on behalf of, a holder who would not be liable or subject to the withholding or deduction by making a declaration of non-residence or other similar claim for exemption to the relevant tax authority; or
 
 
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(iv)     
where such withholding or deduction is imposed on a payment to an individual and is required to be made pursuant to European Council Directive 2003/48/EC or any other Directive implementing the conclusions of the ECOFIN Council meeting of 26-27 November 2000 or any law implementing or complying with, or introduced in order to conform to, such Directive ; or
 
(v)     
presented for payment by or on behalf of a holder who would have been able to avoid such withholding or deduction by presenting the relevant Bond or Coupon to another Paying Agent in a member state of the European Union; or
 
(vi)    
presented for payment more than 30 days after the Relevant Date except to the extent that the holder would have been entitled to additional amounts on presenting the same for payment on the last day of the period of 30 days.
 
(b)  
In these Terms and Conditions, " Relevant Date " means the date on which the payment first becomes due, but if the full amount of the money payable has not been received in London by the Principal Paying Agent or the Trustee on or before the due date, it means the date on which, the full amount of the money having been so received, notice to that effect shall have been duly given to the Bondholders by the Issuer in accordance with Condition 17 ( Notices ).
 
(c)  
Any reference in these Terms and Conditions to any amounts in respect of the Bonds shall be deemed also to refer to any additional amounts which may be payable under this Condition or under any undertakings given in addition to, or in substitution for, this Condition 8 pursuant to the Trust Deed.
 
Under the terms of the Financial Guarantee, Ambac does not guarantee any additional amounts payable by the Issuer under this Condition 8.
 
 9.           
Prescription
 
Bonds and Coupons will become void unless presented for payment within periods of ten years and five years, respectively, from the Relevant Date for payment in respect thereof, subject to the provisions of Condition 6 ( Payments ).
 
10.          
Covenants by the Issuer to Ambac
 
The Issuer has undertaken with Ambac that so long as any of the Bonds remain outstanding and for so long as no Ambac Event of Default has occurred and is continuing (and provided that the covenants in this Condition 10 will continue where any Ambac Event of Default relating to paragraph (a)(i) of the definition of "Ambac Event of Default" is caused solely by an administrative or technical error which is cured within three Business Days of such Ambac Event of Default first arising), it will comply with certain covenants and restrictions set forth in the Trust Deed which include, inter alia , the following:
 
 
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(a)  
General Covenants : It shall:
 
(i)       
not modify or amend, or agree to any modification or amendment to the Electricity Distribution Licence without the consent of OFGEM;
 
(ii)      
use all reasonable endeavours to procure that the underlying or shadow credit rating of the Bonds and any outstanding public long term unsecured, unguaranteed and unsubordinated debt of the Issuer are assigned Investment Grade Ratings by both Rating Agencies, and that such Investment Grade Ratings are maintained;
 
(iii)     
not, without the prior written consent of Ambac, agree to any amendment to the provisions of the memorandum and articles of association for the time being of the Issuer that (x) restrict the activities in which any of the Issuer or any of its Subsidiaries may engage or participate in, (y) limit the disposal by any such company of any or all of its assets, revenues or properties of any nature whatsoever and (z) limit the Incurrence of Indebtedness by any such company, provided that this paragraph (iii) shall not apply to any such amendment required by OFGEM and if such amendment is required by OFGEM, the Issuer shall notify Ambac in writing as soon as practicable of such requirement;
 
(iv)     
procure that no Security Interest is created or granted upon, or with respect to, any of the present or future ordinary shares of the Issuer or any of its Subsidiaries;
 
(v)      
not, without the prior written consent of Ambac, modify or amend, or consent to any modification or amendment of any Existing Negative Pledge; and
 
(vi)     
not have any subsidiary undertaking (as defined in the Companies Act), unless required to do so by OFGEM or consequent to any rule or regulation of OFGEM which is applicable to the Issuer.
 
(b)  
Interest Cover Ratio: It will procure that:
 
(1)  
Interest Cover for each Relevant Period ending on or prior to 31 December 2006 shall be not less than 2.00:1; and
 
(2)  
Interest Cover for each Relevant Period ending after 31 December 2006 shall not be less than 2.50:1.
 
(c)  
Limitation on Financial Indebtedness of the Issuer: It shall not incur any further Financial Indebtedness other than Permitted Financial Indebtedness unless the following conditions are satisfied:
 
 
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(i)  
if such Financial Indebtedness is incurred:
 
(1)  
in the period commencing on the Issue Date and ending on 30 December 2008, the ratio of Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Financial Indebtedness is to be incurred and after giving effect to the gross proposed Financial Indebtedness on a pro forma basis but less cash raised to the extent that it is retained for (i) redemption of existing indebtedness or (ii) Capital Investment) to RAV does not exceed 0.68:1; or
 
(2)  
on or after 31 December 2008, the ratio of Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Financial Indebtedness is to be incurred and after giving effect to the gross proposed Financial Indebtedness on a pro forma basis but less cash raised to the extent that it is retained for (i) redemption of existing indebtedness or (ii) Capital Investment) to RAV does not exceed 0.65:1; and
 
(ii)  
such Financial Indebtedness (save for any Financial Indebtedness which in aggregate does not exceed 5% of RAV) ranks no higher than pari passu with the Bonds.
 
(d)  
Limitation on Distributions: It will not make any Distribution unless:
 
(i)  
in the period commencing on the Issue Date and ending on 30 December 2006, the ratio of Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Distribution is to be made and calculated on a pro forma basis as if the Distribution had been made) to RAV does not exceed 0.79:1; or
 
(ii)  
in the period commencing on 31 December 2006 and ending on 30 December 2007, the ratio of Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Distribution is to be made and calculated on a pro forma basis as if the Distribution had been made) to RAV does not exceed 0.77:1; or
 
(iii)  
on or after 31 December 2007, the ratio of Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Distribution is to be made and calculated on a pro forma basis as if the Distribution had been made) to RAV does not exceed 0.75:1.
 
 
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11.         
Issuer Events of Default
 
If:
 
(a)  
default is made in the payment of any principal or premium (if any) in respect of any Bond pursuant to Condition 7 ( Redemption and Purchase ), or for a period of three Business Days or more in the payment of any interest due in respect of the Bonds; or
 
(b)  
the Issuer fails to perform or observe any of its other obligations, covenants, conditions or provisions under the Bonds, the Trust Deed or the Reimbursement and Indemnity Agreement and (except where the Controlling Party shall have certified to the Issuer in writing that it considers such failure to be incapable of remedy in which case no such notice or continuation as is hereinafter mentioned will he required) such failure continues for the period of 60 days (or such longer period as the Trustee may, with the approval of the Controlling Party, permit) next following the service by the Trustee on the Issuer of notice requiring the same to be remedied; or
 
(c)  
(i) any other Indebtedness For Borrowed Money of the Issuer or any of its Subsidiaries becomes due and repayable prior to its stated maturity by reason of an event of default (however described) or (ii) any such Indebtedness For Borrowed Money is not paid when due or (iii) the Issuer or any of its Subsidiaries fails to pay when due any amount payable by it under any present or future guarantee for, or indemnity in respect of any Indebtedness For Borrowed Money of any person or (iv) any security given by the Issuer or any of its Subsidiaries for any Indebtedness For Borrowed Money of any person or any guarantee or indemnity of Indebtedness For Borrowed Money of any person becomes enforceable by reason of default in relation thereto and steps are taken to enforce such security save in any such case referred to in (i), (ii), (iii) or (iv) where there is a bona fide dispute as to whether the relevant Indebtedness For Borrowed Money or any such guarantee or indemnity as aforesaid shall be due and payable, and provided that the aggregate amount of the relevant Indebtedness For Borrowed Money in respect of which any one or more of the events mentioned above in this sub-paragraph (c) has or have occurred equals or exceeds 5% of RAV and such event shall continue unremedied or unwaived for more than 14 days (or such longer grace period as may have been originally provided in the applicable instrument) and the time for payment of such amount has not been expressly extended (until such time as any payment default is remedied, cured or waived); or
 
(d)  
any order shall be made by any competent court or any resolution shall be passed for the winding up or dissolution of the Issuer, save for the purposes of amalgamation, merger, consolidation, reorganisation, reconstruction or other similar arrangement on terms previously approved in writing by the Controlling Party or (where the Controlling Party is the Trustee) by an Extraordinary Resolution of the Bondholders; or
 
 
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(e)  
the Issuer or any of its Subsidiaries shall cease to carry on the whole or substantially the whole of its business, save in each case for the purposes of amalgamation, merger, consolidation, reorganisation, reconstruction or other arrangement (i) not involving or arising out of the insolvency of the Issuer or any Subsidiary and under which all or substantially all of its assets are transferred to a Subsidiary of the Issuer or to a transferee which is, or immediately upon such transfer becomes a Subsidiary or (ii) under which all or substantially all of its assets are transferred to a third party or parties (whether a Subsidiary or Subsidiaries of the Issuer or not) for full consideration by the Issuer or a Subsidiary on an arm's length basis or (iii) the terms of which have previously been approved in writing by the Controlling Party or (where the Controlling Party is the Trustee) by an Extraordinary Resolution of the Bondholders provided that if the Issuer shall cease to hold or shall transfer the Electricity Distribution Licence (other than where the Electricity Distribution Licence is revoked, terminated or surrendered in the circumstances envisaged by paragraph (i)(a), (b) or (c) of the definition of Restructuring Event in Condition 3 ( Definitions ) and such revocation, termination or surrender does not constitute a Restructuring Event pursuant to paragraph (i) of such definition) the Issuer shall be deemed to have ceased to carry on the whole or substantially the whole of its business (and neither of exceptions (i) and (ii) above shall apply) unless (A) the transferee of the Electricity Distribution Licence is the Issuer or a Subsidiary of the Issuer, at least 51% of the ordinary share capital of which is owned directly or indirectly by the Issuer (the " YE Transferee ") and (B) if Ambac is then the Controlling Party, the YE Transferee guarantees the Bonds pursuant to a guarantee in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Ambac and covenants in favour of Ambac in substantially the same terms as the covenants set forth in Condition 10 ( Covenants by the Issuer to Ambac ) and in either such event all references in these Terms and Conditions to the Issuer in its capacity as holder of the Electricity Distribution Licence shall hereafter be deemed to be references to the YE Transferee; or
 
(f)  
the Issuer or any Subsidiary shall suspend or shall threaten to suspend payment of its debts generally or shall be declared or adjudicated by a competent court to be unable, or shall admit in writing its inability, to pay its debts (within the meaning of Section 123(1) or (2) of the Insolvency Act 1986) as they fall due, or shall be adjudicated or found insolvent by a competent court or shall enter into any composition or other similar arrangement with its creditors under Part I of the Insolvency Act 1986; or
 
(g)  
a receiver, administrative receiver, Energy Administrator, administrator or other similar official shall be appointed in relation to the Issuer or any Subsidiary or in relation to the whole or a substantial part of the undertaking or assets of any of them or a distress, execution or other process shall be levied or enforced upon or sued out against, or any encumbrancer shall take possession of, the whole or a substantial part of the assets of any of them and in any of the foregoing cases it or he shall not be paid out or discharged within 120 days (or such longer period as the Trustee may in its absolute discretion permit);
 
 
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and, in the case of sub-paragraphs (b) and (c) and (e) to (g) (inclusive) the Controlling Party shall have certified in writing that the relevant event is in its opinion materially adverse to (1) where the Controlling Party is Ambac, the interests of Ambac or (2) where the Controlling Party is the Trustee, the interests of the Bondholders, the Controlling Party may at its discretion (and if the Controlling Party is the Trustee it shall on the request in writing of the holders of at least one quarter in principal amount of the Bonds then outstanding or upon being so directed by an Extraordinary Resolution of the Bondholders), by notice in writing to the Issuer declare that the Bonds are, and they shall accordingly thereby forthwith become, immediately due and repayable at their principal amount together with accrued interest (as provided in the Trust Deed), provided always that the giving of any notice in relation to any Issuer Event of Default shall not operate as a waiver of any of the Controlling Party's rights (including the right to give a further notice) or prevent the Controlling Party from giving a further notice in the manner referred to above in relation to that Issuer Event of Default at any time thereafter.
 
So long as any of the Bonds remain outstanding the Issuer will, forthwith upon becoming aware of any Issuer Event of Default or Potential Issuer Event of Default, give notice in writing thereof to the Trustee and to Ambac.
 
For the purpose of sub-paragraph (g) above, Section 123(1)(a) of the Insolvency Act 1986 shall have effect as if for "£750" there was substituted "£250,000" or such higher figure as OFGEM may from time to time determine by notice in writing to the Secretary of State (as referred to in the Electricity Distribution Licence) and the Issuer.
 
Neither the Issuer nor any Subsidiary shall be deemed to be unable to pay its debts for the purposes of sub-paragraph (g) above if any such demand as is mentioned in Section 123(1)(a) of the Insolvency Act I986 is being contested in good faith by the Issuer or the relevant Subsidiary with recourse to all appropriate measures and procedures.
 
While Ambac is the Controlling Party, neither the Bondholders nor the Trustee will have any right to call for repayment of the Bonds following the occurrence of an Issuer Event of Default.
 
12.         
Ambac Events of Default
 
(a)  
Each of the following events is an Ambac Event of Default:
 
(i)  
any amount guaranteed by Ambac under the Financial Guarantee falls due for payment in accordance with the terms of the Financial Guarantee and is not paid by Ambac on the date stipulated in the Financial Guarantee; or
 
(ii)  
Ambac disclaims, disaffirms, repudiates or challenges the validity of any of its obligations under the Financial Guarantee or seeks to do so; or
 
(iii)  
a court of competent jurisdiction enters a final and non-appealable order, judgment or decree for the winding-up, or the appointment of an administrator or receiver (including an administrative receiver or manager) of Ambac (or, as the case may be, of a material part of its property or assets); or
 
 
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(iv)  
Ambac:
 
(1)  
presents any petition or takes any formal steps or proceedings for the winding-up or the appointment of an administrator or receiver (including an administrative receiver or manager) of Ambac (or, as the case may be, of a material part of its property or assets); or
 
(2)  
makes or enters into any general assignment, composition, arrangement (including, without limitation, a voluntary arrangement under Part I of the Insolvency Act 1986) or compromise with or for the benefit of any of its creditors; or
 
(3)  
becomes unable to pay its debts within the meaning of section 123(2) or section 123(1)(e) of such Insolvency Act or admits in writing its inability, or fails generally, to pay its debts as they become due; or
 
(4)  
at any time it is or becomes unlawful for Ambac to perform or comply with any part or all of its obligations under the Financial Guarantee or any of its obligations thereunder are not or cease to be legal, valid or binding;
 
(b)  
So long as any of the Bonds remain outstanding, Ambac will, forthwith upon becoming aware of any Ambac Event of Default, give notice in writing thereof to the Trustee and the Issuer.
 
An Ambac Event of Default will not result in an Issuer Event of Default or in the Bonds becoming repayable early. Following an Ambac Event of Default, Ambac shall cease to be the Controlling Party.
 
13.          
Restructuring Event
 
(a)  
 
(i)  
If, at any time following the occurrence of an Ambac Event of Default, while any of the Bonds remains outstanding, a Restructuring Event occurs and prior to the commencement of or during the Restructuring Period an Independent Financial Adviser (as defined below) shall have certified in writing to the Trustee that such Restructuring Event will not be or is not, in its opinion, materially prejudicial to the interests of the Bondholders, the following provisions of this Condition shall cease to have any further effect in relation to such Restructuring Event.
 
(ii)  
If, at any time following the occurrence of an Ambac Event of Default while any of the Bonds remains outstanding, a Restructuring Event occurs and (subject to paragraph (a)(i) above):
 
(1)  
within the Restructuring Period, either:
 
 
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(A)
if at the time such Restructuring Event occurs there are Reference Rated Securities, a Rating Downgrade in respect of such Restructuring Event also occurs; or
 
 
(B)
if at such time there are not Reference Rated Securities, a Negative Rating Event also occurs; and
 
(2)  
an Independent Financial Adviser shall have certified in writing to the Trustee that such Restructuring Event is, in its opinion, materially prejudicial to the interests of the Bondholders (a " Negative Certification "),
 
then, unless at any time the Issuer shall have given a notice under Condition 7(b) ( Redemption at the option of the Issuer ) or Condition 7(c) ( Redemption for tax reasons ), in each case expiring prior to the Put Date (as defined below), the holder of each Bond will, upon the giving of a Put Event Notice (as defined below), have the option (the " Put Option ") to require the Issuer to redeem or, at the option of the Issuer, purchase (or procure the purchase of) that Bond on the Put Date at its principal amount together with (or, where purchased, together with an amount equal to) interest (if any) accrued to (but excluding) the Put Date.
 
Notwithstanding the occurrence of a Rating Downgrade or a Negative Rating Event, no Bondholder shall be entitled to exercise the Put Option and to serve a Put Notice if the rating assigned to the Reference Rated Securities or these Bonds by any Rating Agency is subsequently increased to, or, as the case may be, there is assigned to the Reference Rated Securities or these Bonds by any Rating Agency an Investment Grade Rating or, in the event that the rating assigned to the Reference Rated Securities immediately prior to the occurrence of the Rating Downgrade or Negative Rating Event was not an Investment Grade Rating, if such rating is restored, in either case prior to any Negative Certification being issued.
 
Any certificate by an Independent Financial Adviser as aforesaid as to whether or not, in its opinion, any Restructuring Event is materially prejudicial to the interest of the Bondholders shall, in the absence of manifest error, be conclusive and binding on Ambac, the Trustee, the Issuer and the Bondholders. For the purposes of this Condition, an " Independent Financial Adviser " means a financial adviser appointed by the Issuer and approved by the Trustee (such approval not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed) or, if the Issuer shall not have appointed such an adviser within 21 days after becoming aware of the occurrence of such Restructuring Event and the Trustee is indemnified to its satisfaction against the costs of such adviser, appointed by the Trustee following consultation with the Issuer.
 
A Rating Downgrade or a Negative Rating Event or a non-Investment Grade Rating shall be deemed not to have occurred as a result of or in respect of a Restructuring Event if the Rating Agency making the relevant reduction in rating or, where applicable, declining to assign an Investment Grade Rating as provided in this Condition does not announce or publicly confirm or inform the Trustee in writing at its request that the reduction or, where applicable, declining to assign a rating of at least investment grade was the result, in whole or in part, of any event or circumstance comprised in or arising as a result of the applicable Restructuring Event.
 
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The Trust Deed provides that the Trustee is under no obligation to ascertain whether a Restructuring Event, a Negative Rating Event, a Rating Downgrade or any event which could lead to the occurrence of or could constitute a Restructuring Event, a Negative Rating Event or a Rating Downgrade has occurred and until it shall have actual knowledge or express notice pursuant to the Trust Deed to the contrary the Trustee may assume that no Restructuring Event, Negative Rating Event, Rating Downgrade or other such event has occurred.
 
(b)  
Promptly upon the Issuer becoming aware that a Put Event (as defined in Condition 3 ( Definitions )) has occurred, and in any event not later than 14 days after the occurrence of a Put Event, the Issuer shall, and at any time upon the Trustee becoming similarly so aware the Trustee may, and if so requested by the holders of at least one-quarter in principal amount of the Bonds then outstanding shall, give notice (a " Put Event Notice ") to the Bondholders in accordance with Condition 17 ( Notices ) specifying the nature of the Put Event and the procedure for exercising the Put Option.
 
(c)  
To exercise the Put Option, the holder of a Bond must deliver such Bond to the specified office of any Paying Agent, on a day which is a business day (as defined in Condition 6 ( Payments )) in London and in the place of such specified office falling within the period (the " Put Period ") of 45 days after that on which a Put Event Notice is given, accompanied by a duly completed and signed notice of exercise in the form (for the time being current) obtainable from any specified office of any Paying Agent (a " Put Notice ") and in which the holder may specify a bank account complying with the requirements of Condition 6 ( Payments ) to which payment is to be made under this Condition. Each Bond should be delivered together with all Coupons and Talons appertaining thereto maturing after the day (the " Put Date ") being the fifteenth day after the date of expiry of the Put Period, failing which any such missing Coupon or Talon will become void and no payment shall be made in respect of it. The Paying Agent to which such Bond and Put Notices are delivered shall issue to the Bondholder concerned a non-transferable receipt in respect of the Bond so delivered. Payment in respect of any Bond so delivered shall be made, if the holder duly specifies a bank account in the Put Notice to which payment is to be made on the Put Date, by transfer to that bank account and, in every other case, on or after the Put Date, in each case against presentation and surrender or (as the case may be) endorsement of such receipt at any specified office of any Paying Agent, subject in any such case as provided in Condition 6 ( Payments ). A Put Notice, once given, shall be irrevocable. For the purposes of Conditions 9 ( Prescription ), 11 ( Issuer Events of Default ), 14 (Enforcement), 16 ( Replacement of Bonds and Coupons ) and 18 ( Meetings of Bondholders, Modification and Waiver ) receipts issued pursuant to this Condition shall be treated as if they were Bonds. The Issuer shall redeem or, at the option of the Issuer, purchase (or procure the purchase of) the relevant Bond on the applicable Put Date unless previously redeemed or purchased.
 
The Financial Guarantee does not guarantee the payment of any sums due to Bondholders upon exercise of the Put Option pursuant to this Condition 13.
 
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14.         
Enforcement
 
(a)  
Limitation on Bondholders: Save as provided below, only the Trustee may pursue the remedies available under general law or under the Trust Deed to enforce the rights of the Bondholders and Couponholders and no such holder will be entitled to proceed against the Issuer or Ambac unless the Trustee, having become bound to act in accordance with the terms of the Trust Deed, fails to do so and such failure is continuing. If, in connection with any insolvency, bankruptcy, administration, dissolution, liquidation or analogous procedure relating to the Issuer, a payment on the Bonds by the Issuer is claimed to be or is avoided as a preferential transfer, Ambac may (provided that Ambac is then the Controlling Party) direct all matters relating to such claim or avoidance on behalf of the Trustee, the Bondholders and the Couponholders.
 
(b)  
Enforcement Proceedings: At any time after amounts in respect of principal of and interest on the Bonds or amounts payable by Ambac under the Financial Guarantee shall have become due and payable but are unpaid, the Trustee may, at its discretion, and without further notice but subject as mentioned below, take such proceedings against, respectively:
 
(i)  
the Issuer as it may think fit to enforce the provisions of the Trust Deed in accordance with the terms thereof; and/or
 
(ii)  
Ambac as it may think fit to enforce the provisions of the Financial Guarantee.
 
If the Trustee is not the Controlling Party it shall not be permitted to take any such proceedings as are referred to in Condition 14(b)(i) above against the Issuer unless it has been directed by the Controlling Party to do so and shall only be bound to take proceedings against the Issuer at the direction of the Controlling Party if it has been indemnified to its satisfaction by the Controlling Party. If the Trustee is the Controlling Party, it shall only be bound to take proceedings pursuant to Condition 14(b) (i) or (ii) if it has been indemnified to its satisfaction by the Bondholders and if it has been so requested in writing by the holders of not less than 25 per cent. of the principal amount outstanding (as defined in the Trust Deed) of the Bonds or has been so directed by an Extraordinary Resolution (as defined in the Trust Deed)).
 
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15.         
Controlling Party
 
Subject to (i) the terms of the Trust Deed, (ii) Ambac being at that time the Controlling Party and (iii) Ambac giving notice to the Trustee that it intends to exercise the Trust Rights, Ambac shall have exclusive control to exercise the Trust Rights or to direct the exercise of the Trust Rights (as applicable) without regard to the interests of any other person, and will not be a fiduciary or owe any fiduciary duties to any person under the Trust Deed and will be exclusively authorised to direct and refrain from directing, the Trustee under the Trust Deed in the exercise of the Trust Rights without regard to the interests of any other person.
 
For these purposes " Trust Rights " means (i) the right to direct the Trustee to consent to any amendment, waiver, modification and/or extension of any of the provisions of the Trust Deed or any document entered into pursuant to the Trust Deed and (ii) the right to direct the Trustee with respect to each and every right, power and discretion of, or exercisable by, the Trustee under any provisions of the Trust Deed or any document entered into pursuant to the Trust Deed.
 
16.         
Replacement of Bonds and Coupons
 
Should any Bond or Coupon be lost, stolen, mutilated, defaced or destroyed it may, subject to all applicable laws and stock exchange requirements, be replaced at the specified office of the Principal Paying Agent (or such other Paying Agent as may be approved by the Trustee for such purpose) upon payment by the claimant of the expenses, taxes and duties incurred in connection therewith and on such terms as to evidence and indemnity as the Issuer may reasonably require. Mutilated or defaced Bonds or Coupons must be surrendered before replacements will be issued.
 
17.         
Notices
 
All notices to Bondholders shall be valid if published in a leading English language national daily newspaper (which is expected to be the Financial Times ) or, if this is not practicable, in such leading English language daily newspaper with a circulation in Europe as the Trustee may approve. Such notices shall be deemed to have been given on the date of such publication or, if published more than once or on different dates, on the date of the first such publication. If publication is not practicable, notice shall be given in such other manner, and shall be deemed to have been given on such date, as the Trustee may approve.
 
Couponholders will be deemed for all purposes to have notice of the contents of any notice given to the Bondholders in accordance with this Condition.
 
18.         
Meetings of Bondholders, Modification and Waiver
 
The Trust Deed contains provisions for convening meetings of the Bondholders to consider any matter affecting their interests, including modification by Extraordinary Resolution of these Terms and Conditions or the provisions of the Trust Deed. The quorum at any such meeting for passing an Extraordinary Resolution shall be one or more persons holding or representing a clear majority in principal amount of the Bonds for the time being outstanding, or at any adjourned such meeting one or more persons being or representing Bondholders whatever the principal amount of the Bonds so held or represented, except that, at any meeting the business of which includes the modification of certain of these Terms and Conditions and certain of the provisions of the Trust Deed (including altering the currency of payment of the Bonds or Coupons), the necessary quorum for passing an Extraordinary Resolution will be one or more persons holding or representing not less than two-thirds, or at any adjourned such meeting not less than one-third, in principal amount of the Bonds for the time being outstanding. An Extraordinary Resolution passed at any meeting of Bondholders shall be binding on all Bondholders, whether or not they are present or represented at the meeting, and on all Couponholders.
 
 
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Subject as provided in the Trust Deed, Ambac is entitled to receive notice of and to attend meetings of Bondholders but is not entitled to vote.
 
Without prejudice to Condition 15 ( Controlling Party ), subject to the prior written consent of Ambac (if Ambac is then the Controlling Party), the Trustee may, without the consent of the Bondholders or Couponholders, agree (i) other than in respect of the matters detailed in the proviso to paragraph 19 of Schedule 5 to the Trust Deed, to any modification to these Terms and Conditions or to any of the provisions of the Trust Deed or the Financial Guarantee or to any waiver or authorisation of any breach or proposed breach by the Issuer of these Terms and Conditions or of any of the provisions of the Trust Deed or determine that any event, condition or act which would otherwise be an Issuer Event of Default shall not be so treated provided that, in the opinion of the Trustee, so to do would not be materially prejudicial to the interests of the Bondholders, or (ii) to any modification to these Terms and Conditions or to any of the provisions of the Trust Deed or the Financial Guarantee which is made to correct a manifest error or which is of a formal, minor or technical nature, provided that the Issuer and Ambac may, without the consent of the Trustee or the Bondholders or Couponholders, agree to any modification to Condition 10 ( Covenants by the Issuer to Ambac ).
 
In connection with the exercise of its trusts, powers, authorities or discretions (including, but not limited to, any modification, waiver, authorisation or substitution) the Trustee shall have regard to the interests of Bondholders as a class and, in particular, but without limitation, shall not have regard to the consequences of the exercise of its trusts, powers or discretions for individual Bondholders and Couponholders resulting from their being for any purpose domiciled or resident in, or otherwise connected with, or subject to the jurisdiction of, any particular territory and the Trustee shall not be entitled to require, nor shall the Bondholder or Couponholder be entitled to claim, from the Issuer, Ambac or any other person any indemnification or payment in respect of any tax consequence of any such exercise upon individual Bondholders or Couponholders, except to the extent already provided for in Condition 8 ( Taxation ) and/or any undertaking given to, or in substitution for, Condition 8 ( Taxation ) pursuant to the Trust Deed.
 
Any modification to these Terms and Conditions or to any of the provisions of the Trust Deed or the Financial Guarantee or any waiver or authorisation of any breach or proposed breach by the Issuer of these Terms and Conditions or any of the provisions of the Trust Deed shall be binding on the Bondholders and the Couponholders and, unless the Trustee agrees otherwise, any modification shall be notified by the Issuer to the Bondholders as soon as practicable thereafter in accordance with Condition 17 ( Notices ).
 
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19.         
Substitution
 
The Trustee may, without the consent of the Bondholders or Couponholders, agree with the Issuer, with the consent of Ambac (such consent not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed) to the substitution of any wholly-owned Subsidiary of the Issuer in place of the Issuer (or of any previous substitute under this Condition) as the principal debtor under the Bonds, the Coupons and the Trust Deed, subject to the Trustee being of the opinion that the interests of the Bondholders will not be materially prejudiced thereby and certain other conditions set out in the Trust Deed being complied with.
 
20.          
Further Bonds
 
(a)  
Subject as mentioned below, power will be reserved to the Issuer to create and issue Further Bonds forming (or so as to form after the first payment of interest thereon) a single series with the Bonds provided that :
 
(i)  
Ambac has consented (in its absolute discretion) to amend or substitute the Financial Guarantee so that the Financial Guarantee also covers such Further Bonds on the same terms as the Bonds;
 
(ii)  
the Trustee is satisfied that the rating granted in respect of the Bonds by S&P and Moody's will not thereby be adversely affected; and
 
(iii)  
such issue shall be constituted by a deed supplemental to the Trust Deed (in such form as the Trustee may approve).
 
(b)  
The Issuer shall not be entitled to exercise the power reserved in this Condition 20 ( Further Bonds ) while any default exists in relation to any payment by the Issuer of any amounts due under the Trust Deed or the Reimbursement and Indemnity Agreement.
 
21.          
Trustee
 
The Trust Deed contains provisions governing the responsibility of the Trustee and providing for its indemnification in certain circumstances, including provisions relieving it from taking proceedings against the Issuer and/or Ambac unless indemnified to its satisfaction. The Trustee may not resign its appointment unless a successor, willing to act in such capacity, has been appointed by the Issuer with the prior consent of Ambac (if then the Controlling Party) and the Bondholders by Extraordinary Resolution, provided that the Trustee shall not be prevented from resigning its appointment if, having given notice in writing to the Issuer and Ambac (if then the Controlling Party) of its intention to so resign its appointment, a successor is not appointed within the period of three months from the date of such notice.
 
22.          
Redenomination, Renominalisation and Reconventioning
 
(a)  
Notice of redenomination : If the United Kingdom becomes or, announces its intention to become, a Participating Member State, the Issuer may, without the consent of Ambac, the Bondholders and Couponholders, on giving at least 30 days' prior notice to Ambac, the Trustee, the Bondholders and the Paying Agents, designate a date (the " Redenomination Date "), being an Interest Payment Date under the Bonds falling on or after the date on which the United Kingdom becomes a Participating Member State.
 
 
-84-

 
(b)  
Redenomination : Notwithstanding the other provisions of these Conditions, with effect from the Redenomination Date:
 
(i)  
the Bonds shall be deemed to be redenominated into Euro in the denomination of Euro 0.01 (or such other denomination as the Issuer shall determine) with a principal amount for each Bond equal to the principal amount of that Bond in Sterling, converted into Euro at the rate for conversion of such currency into Euro established by the Council of the European Union pursuant to the Treaty (including compliance with rules relating to rounding in accordance with European Community regulations); provided, however, that , if the Issuer determines, with the agreement of the Principal Paying Agent, that market practice in respect of the redenomination into Euro 0.01 (or such other denomination as the Issuer shall determine) of internationally offered securities is different from that specified above, such provisions shall be deemed to be amended so as to comply with such market practice and the Issuer shall promptly notify Ambac, the Bondholders and Couponholders, each listing authority, stock exchange and/or quotation system (if any) by which the Bonds have then been admitted to listing, trading and/or quotation and the Paying Agents of such deemed amendments;
 
(ii)  
if Bonds have been issued in definitive form:
 
(1)  
all unmatured Coupons denominated in Sterling (whether or not attached to the Bonds) will become void with effect from the date (the " Euro Exchange Date ") on which the Issuer gives notice (the " Euro Exchange Notice ") to the Bondholders that replacement Bonds and Coupons denominated in Euro are available for exchange ( provided that such Bonds and Coupons are available) and no payments will be made in respect thereof;
 
(2)  
the payment obligations contained in all Bonds denominated in Sterling will become void on the Euro Exchange Date but all other obligations of the Issuer thereunder (including the obligation to exchange such Bonds in accordance with this Condition 22) shall remain in full force and effect;
 
(iii)  
new Bonds and Coupons denominated in Euro will be issued in exchange for Bonds and Coupons denominated in Sterling in such manner as the Principal Paying Agent may specify and as shall be notified to the Bondholders in the Euro Exchange Notice; and
 
 
-85-

 
(iv)  
all payments in respect of the Bonds (other than, unless the Redenomination Date is on or after such date as Sterling ceases to be a sub-division of the Euro, payments of interest in respect of periods commencing before the Redenomination Date) will be made solely in Euro by Euro cheque drawn on, or by credit or transfer to a Euro account (or other account to which Euro may be credited or transferred) maintained by the payee with, a bank in a country in a city in which banks have access to the TARGET System.
 
(c)  
Interest : Following redenomination of the Bonds pursuant to this Condition 22, where Bonds have been issued in definitive form, the amount of interest due in respect of the Bonds will be calculated by reference to the aggregate principal amount of the Bonds presented (or, as the case may be, in respect of which Coupons are presented) for payment by the relevant holder.
 
(d)  
Interpretation : In this Condition:
 
" Participating Member State " means a member state of the European Union which adopts the Euro as its lawful currency in accordance with the Treaty; and
 
" Treaty " means the Treaty establishing the European Community, as amended.
 
23.         
Governing Law
 
The Trust Deed, the Bonds, the Coupons and the Financial Guarantee are governed by, and shall be construed in accordance with, English law.
 

-86-

 
 
SCHEDULE 5   
Provisions for Meetings of Bondholders
 
1.             
The following expressions shall have the following meanings:
 
1.1           
" voting certificate " means a certificate in the English language issued by a Paying Agent and dated in which it is stated:
 
1.1.1     
that on that date Bonds (not being Bonds in respect of which a block voting instruction has been issued and is outstanding in respect of the meeting specified in such voting certificate or any adjournment of such meeting) bearing specified serial numbers were deposited with such Paying Agent (or to its order at a bank or other depositary) and that such Bonds will not be released until the earlier of:
 
(a)    
the conclusion of the meeting specified in such certificate or any adjournment of it; and
 
(b)    
the surrender of the certificate to the Paying Agent which issued it; and
 
1.1.2     
that its bearer is entitled to attend and vote at such meeting or any adjournment of it in respect of the Bonds represented by such certificate;
 
1.2          
" block voting instruction " means a document in the English language issued by a Paying Agent and date in which:
 
1.2.1    
it is certified that Bonds (not being Bonds in respect of which a voting certificate has been issued and is outstanding in respect of the meeting specified in such block voting instruction or any adjournment of it) have been deposited with such Paying Agent (or to its order at a bank or other depositary) and that such Bonds will not be released until the earlier of:
 
(a)     
the conclusions of the meeting specified in such document or any adjournment of it; and
 
(b)    
the surrender, not less that 48 hours before the time fixed for such meeting or adjournment, of the receipt for each such deposited Bond which is to be released to the Paying Agent which issued it and the notification of such surrender by such Paying Agent to the Issuer;
 
1.2.2    
it is certified that each depositor of such Bonds or a duly authorised agent on his behalf has instructed such Paying Agent that the votes attributable to his Bonds so deposited should be cast in a particular way in relation to the resolution to be put to such meeting or any adjournment of it and that all such instructions are, during the period of 48 hours before the time fixed for such meeting or adjourned meeting, neither revocable nor subject to amendment;
 
1.2.3    
the total number and the serial numbers of the Bonds so deposited are listed, distinguishing with regard to each such resolution between those in respect of which instructions have been given (i) to vote for, and (ii) to vote against, the resolution; and
 
-87-

 
1.2.4    
any person named in such document (a " proxy ") is authorised and instructed by such Paying Agent to vote in respect of the Bonds so listed in accordance with the instructions referred to in 1.2.3 above as set out in such document.
 
1.3          
" 24 hours " shall mean a period of 24 hours including all or part of a day upon which banks are open for business in both the place where the relevant meeting is to be held and in each of the places where the Paying Agents have their specified offices (disregarding for this purpose the day upon which such meeting is to be held) and such period shall be extended by one period or, to the extent necessary, more periods of 24 hours until there is included as aforesaid all or part of a day upon which banks are open for business in all of the places as aforesaid; and
 
1.4           
" 48 hours " shall mean a period of 48 hours including all or part of a day upon which banks are open for business in both the place where the relevant meeting is to be held and in each of the places where the Paying Agents have their specified offices (disregarding for this purpose the day upon which such meeting is to be held) and such period shall be extended by one period or, to the extent necessary, more periods of 24 hours until there is included as aforesaid all or part of two days upon which banks are open for business in all of the places as aforesaid.
 
1.5           
References in this Schedule 5 to Ambac shall apply only for so long as Ambac is the Controlling Party.
 
2.             
A holder of a Bond may obtain a voting certificate from a Paying Agent or require a Paying Agent to issue a block voting instruction by depositing his Bond with such Paying Agent not later than 48 hours before the time fixed for any meeting. Voting certificates and block voting instructions shall be valid until the relevant Bonds are released pursuant to paragraph 1 above and until then the holders of any such voting certificate or (as the case may be) the proxy named in any such block voting instruction shall, for all purposed in connection with any meeting or proposed meeting of Bondholders, be deemed to be the holder of the Bonds to which such voting certificate or block voting instruction relates and the Paying Agent with which (or to the order of which) such Bonds have been deposited shall be deemed for such purposes not to be the holder of those Bonds.
 
3.                 
Each of the Issuer, Ambac and the Trustee at any time may, and the Trustee (subject to its being indemnified to its satisfaction against all costs and expenses thereby occasioned) upon a request in writing of Bondholders holding not less than one-tenth in principal amount of the Bonds for the time being outstanding shall, convene a meeting of Bondholders. Whenever any such party is about to convene any such meeting it shall forthwith give notice in writing to the other parties of the day, time and place of the meeting and of the nature of the business to be transacted at it. Every such meeting shall be held at such time and place as the Trustee may approve.
 
-88-

 
4.            
At least 21 days' notice (exclusive of the day on which the notice is given and of the day on which the meeting is held) specifying the day, time and place of meeting shall be given to the Bondholders (with a copy to the Issuer and Ambac or, where the meeting is convened by the Issuer, Ambac and the Trustee). A copy of the notice shall in all cases be given by the party convening the meeting to the other parties. Such notice shall also specify, unless in any particular case the Trustee otherwise agrees, the nature of the resolutions to be proposed and shall include a statement to the effect that Bonds may be deposited with (or to the order of) any Paying Agent for the purpose of obtaining voting certificates or appointing proxies not later than 48 hours before the time fixed for the meeting.
 
5.            
A person (who may, but need not, be a Bondholder) nominated in writing by the Trustee may take the chair at every such meeting but if no such nomination is made or if at any meeting the person nominated shall not be present within 15 minutes after the time fixed for the meeting the Bondholders present shall choose one of their number to be chairman, failing which the Issuer may appoint a chairman. The chairman of an adjourned meeting need to be the same person as was chairman the original meeting.
 
6.            
At any such meeting any one or more persons present in person holding Bonds or voting certificates and holding or representing in the aggregate not less than one-tenth in principal amount of the Bonds for the time being outstanding shall (except for the purpose of passing an Extraordinary Resolution) form a quorum for the transaction of business and no business (other than the choosing of a chairman) shall be transacted at any meeting unless the requisite quorum be present at the commencement of business. The quorum at any such meeting for passing an Extraordinary Resolution shall (subject as provided below) be one or more persons present in person holding Bonds or voting certificates and holding or representing in the aggregate a clear majority in principal amount of the Bonds for the time being outstanding provided that at any meeting the business of which includes any of the matters specified in the proviso in paragraph 19 below the quorum shall be one or more persons present in person holding Bonds or voting certificates and holding or representing in the aggregate not less than two-thirds in principal amount of the Bonds for the time being outstanding.
 
7.             
If within 15 minutes from the time fixed for any such meeting a quorum is not present the meeting shall, if convened upon the requisition of Bondholders, be dissolved. In any other case it shall stand adjourned (unless the Issuer, Ambac and the Trustee agree that it be dissolved) for such period, not being less than 14 days nor more than 42 days, and to such place, as may be decided by the chairman. At such adjourned meeting one or more persons present in person holding Bonds or voting certificates (whatever the principal amount of the Bonds so held or represented) shall form a quorum and may pass any resolution and decide upon all matters which could properly have been dealt with at the meeting from which the adjournment took place had quorum been present at such meeting provided that at any adjourned meeting at which is to be proposed an Extraordinary Resolution for the purpose of effecting any of the modifications specified in the proviso to paragraph 19 below the quorum shall be one or more persons present in person holding Bonds or voting certificates and holding or representing in the aggregate not less than one-third in principal amount of the Bonds for the time being outstanding.
 
 
-89-

 
 
8.             
The chairman may with the consent of (and shall if directed by) any meeting adjourn such meeting from time to time and from place to place but no business shall be transacted at any adjourned meeting except business which might lawfully have been transacted at the meeting from which the adjournment took place.
 
9.             
At least 10 days' notice of any meeting adjourned through want of a quorum shall be given in the same manner as for an original meeting and such notice shall state the quorum required at such adjourned meeting. It shall not, however, otherwise be necessary to give any notice of an adjourned meeting.
 
10.           
Every question submitted to a meeting shall be decided in the first instance by a show of hands and in case of equality of votes of the chairman shall both on a show of hands and on a poll have a casting vote in addition to the vote or votes (if any) which he may have as a Bondholder or as a holder of a voting certificate.
 
11.           
At any meeting, unless a poll is (before or on the declaration of the result of the show of hands) demanded by the chairman, the Issuer, Ambac, the Trustee or by one or more persons holding one or more Bonds or voting certificates and holding or representing in the aggregate not less than one-fiftieth in principal amount of the Bonds for the time being outstanding, a declaration by the chairman that a resolution has been carried or carried by a particular majority or lost or not carried by any particular majority shall be conclusive evidence of the fact without proof of the number or proportion of the votes recorded in favour of or against such resolution.
 
12.          
If at any meeting a poll is so demanded, it shall be taken in such manner and (subject as provided below) either at once or after such an adjournment as the chairman directs and the resolute of such poll shall be deemed to be the resolution of the meeting at which the poll was demanded as at the date of the taking of the poll. The demand for a poll shall not prevent the continuation of the meeting for the transaction of any business other than the question on which the poll has been demanded.
 
13.           
Any poll demanded at any meeting on the election of a chairman or on any question of adjournment shall be taken at the meeting without adjournment.
 
14.           
The issuer, the Trustee and Ambac (through their respective representatives) and their respective financial and legal advisers may attend and speak at any meeting of Bondholders. No one else may attend at any meeting of Bondholders or join with others in requesting the convening of such a meeting unless he is the holder of a Bond or a voting certificate.
 
15.           
At any meeting on a show of hands every person who is present in person and who produces a Bond or voting certificate shall have one vote and on a poll every person who is so present shall have one vote in respect of each £50,000 principal amount of the Bonds so produced or represented by the voting certificate. Without prejudice to the obligations of proxies named in any block voting instruction, any person entitled to more than one vote need not use all his votes or cast all the votes to which he is entitled in the same way.
 
 
-90-

 
16.           
The proxy named in any block voting instruction need not be a Bondholder.
 
17.           
Each block voting instruction shall be deposited at the registered office of the Issuer, or at such other place as the Trustee shall designate or approve, not less than 24 hours before the time appointed for holding the meeting or adjourned meeting at which the proxy named in the block voting instruction proposes to vote and in default the block voting instruction shall not be treated as valid unless the chairman of the meeting decides otherwise before such meeting or adjourned meeting proceeds to business. A notarially certified copy of each such block voting instruction and satisfactory proof (if applicable) shall if required by the Trustee be produced by the proxy at the meeting or adjourned meeting but the Trustee shall not thereby be obliged to investigate or be concerned with the validity of, or the authority of, the proxy named in any such block voting instruction.
 
18.           
Any vote given in accordance with the terms of a block voting instruction shall be valid even if the block voting instruction or any of the Bondholders' instructions pursuant to which it was executed has been previously revoked or amended, provided that no intimation in writing of such revocation or amendment shall have been received from the relevant Paying Agent by the Issuer or the Trustee at its registered office or by the chairman of the meeting in each case not less than 24 hours before the time fixed for the meeting or adjourned meeting at which the block voting instruction is used.
 
19.           
A meeting of Bondholders shall, subject to the Conditions, in addition to the powers given above, but without prejudice to any powers conferred on other persons by this Trust Deed, have power exercisable by Extraordinary Resolution:
 
19.1           
to sanction any proposal by the Issuer or Ambac for any modification, abrogation, variation or compromise of, or arrangement in respect of, the rights of the Bondholders and/or the Couponholders against the Issuer (whether such rights shall arise under this Trust Deed or otherwise) or the obligations of Ambac under the Financial Guarantee);
 
19.2       
to sanction the exchange or substitution for the Bonds of, or the conversion of the Bonds into, shares, bonds, or other obligations or securities of the Issuer or any other body corporate formed or to be formed;
 
19.3       
to assent to any modification of this Trust Deed, the Bonds or the Coupons which shall be proposed by the Issuer or the Trustee;
 
19.4       
to authorise anyone to occur in and do all such things as may be necessary to carry out and give effect to any Extraordinary Resolution;
 
19.5        
to give any authority, direction or sanction which under this Trust Deed or the Bonds is required to be given by Extraordinary Resolution;
 
 
-91-

 
19.6       
to appoint any persons (whether Bondholders or not) as a committee or committees to represent the interests of the Bondholders and to confer upon such committee or committees any powers or discretions which the Bondholders could themselves exercise by Extraordinary Resolution;
 
19.7        
to approve a person proposed to be appointed as a new Trustee and to remove any Trustee;
 
19.8        
to approve the substitution of any entity for the issuer (or any previous substitute) as principal debtor under this Trust Deed or the substitution of any person for Ambac as guarantor under the Financial Guarantee;
 
19.9          
to discharge or exonerate the Trustee from any liability in respect of any act or omission for which it may become responsible under this Trust Deed, the Bonds or the Coupons; and
 
19.10      
to waive or authorise any breach by the Issuer or Ambac of their respective obligations under this Trust Deed and the Financial Guarantee;
 
provided that the special quorum provisions contained in the proviso to paragraph 6 above and, in the case of an adjourned meeting, in the proviso to paragraph 7 above shall apply in relation to any Extraordinary Resolution for the purpose of paragraph 19.2 or 19.8 above or for the purpose of making any modification to the provisions contained in this Trust Deed, the Bonds or the Coupons which would have the effect of:
 
19.10.1   
postponing the maturity of the Bonds or the dates on which interest is payable in respect of the Bonds; or
 
19.10.2    
reducing or cancelling the principal amount of, any premium payable on redemption of, or interest on the Bonds; or
 
19.10.3    
changing the currency of payment of the Bonds; or
 
19.10.4    
modifying the provisions contained in this Schedule concerning the quorum required at any meeting of Bondholders or the majority required to pass an Extraordinary Resolution; or
 
19.10.5    
amending this proviso.
 
20.          
An Extraordinary Resolution passed at a meeting of Bondholders duly convened and held in accordance with this Trust Deed shall be binding upon all the Bondholders, whether or not present at such meeting, and upon all the Couponholders and each of the Bondholders and Couponholders shall be bound to give effect to it accordingly. The passing of any such resolution shall be conclusive evidence that the circumstances of such resolution justify the passing of it.
 
 
-92-

 
 
21.          
The expression " Extraordinary Resolution " means a resolute on passed at a meeting of Bondholders duly convened and held in accordance with these provisions by a majority consisting of not less than three-quarters of the votes cast.
 
22.          
Minutes of all resolutions and proceedings at every such meeting shall be made and entered in the books to be from time to time provided for that purpose by the Issuer or the Trustee and any such minutes, if purporting to be signed by the chairman of the meeting at which such resolutions were passed or proceedings transacted or by the chairman of the next succeeding meeting of Bondholders, shall be conclusive evidence of the matters contained in them and until the contrary is proved every such meeting in respect of the proceedings of which minutes have been so made and signed shall be deemed to have been duly convened and held and all resolutions passed or proceedings transacted at it to have been duly passed and transacted.
 
23.          
Subject to all other provisions contained in this Trust Deed the Trustee may without the consent of the Bondholders prescribe such further regulations regarding the holding of meetings of Bondholders and attendance and voting at them as the Trustee may in its sole discretion determine including particularly (but without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing) such regulations and requirements as the Trustee thinks reasonable:
 
23.1        
so as to satisfy itself that persons who purport to requisite on a meeting in accordance with paragraph 3 above or who purport to make any requisition to the Trustee in accordance with this Trust Deed are in fact Bondholders; and
 
23.2       
as to the form of voting certificates or block voting instructions to be issued pursuant to paragraph 1 above so as to satisfy itself that persons who purport to attend or vote at any meeting of Bondholders are entitled to do so in accordance with this Trust Deed.
 
-93-

 
SCHEDULE 6   
 
Excluded Rights of the Trustee
 
" Excluded Rights " means each and every right, power, authority and discretion of, or exercisable by the Trustee:
 
(a)  
except as otherwise specifically provided herein and subject to the rights of the Controlling Party, to make any determination contemplated or required under this Trust Deed (including any determination as to the occurrence or otherwise of an Ambac Event of Default) (but for the avoidance of doubt, save as otherwise specifically provided herein, Excluded Rights shall not include the right to exercise any rights consequent on such determination);
 
(b)  
to agree to make any amendment or any repeated waiver or consent which has the effect of resulting in or permitting any amendment to the provisions of the Financial Guarantee;
 
(c)  
to make any claim under, enforce or agree to any amendment to the Financial Guarantee;
 
(d)  
which is provided for the purpose of enabling the Trustee to protect its own interests;
 
(e)  
which relates to the application by the Trustee of (i) the principal and premium (if any) of the Bonds on a redemption of the Bonds, or (ii) any interest payable on the Bonds from time to time;
 
(f)  
to determine amounts due in relation to indemnities in favour of the Trustee under this Trust Deed;
 
(g)  
to require the making of any payment due and payable to it or the Bondholders;
 
(h)  
unless at such time Ambac is the Controlling Party, to determine whether to require acceleration of the Bonds in accordance with Condition 11 ( Issuer Events of Default ) of the Bonds;
 
(i)  
to determine the amount of sums due in relation to expenses and stamp duties pursuant to this Trust Deed; and
 
(j)  
to make a claim for expenses under this Trust Deed.

 
--94-


 
SIGNATURES
 
 
  EXECUTED as a DEED and delivered by   
   ) 
  YORKSHIRE ELECTRICITY DISTRIBUTION PLC
   )
  acting by a Director and the Secretary
   )  
   
  /s/  Ken Linge  
  Ken Linge  
  Director  
   
  /s/ John Elliott  
  John Elliott  
  Secretary  
 
 
 
 EXECUTED and DELIVERED as a DEED
)
Seal
  under the Common Seal of
 )
 
  AMBAC ASSURANCE UK LIMITED
 )
 
 in the presence of
  )
 
     
  /s/ Thomas Jacquot
   
  Thomas Jacquot    
  Authorised Signatory    
 
 
 
 EXECUTED and DELIVERED as a DEED
 )
 
  By HSBC TRUSTEE (C.I.) LIMITED
 )
 
 in the presence of:
 )
 
     
 /s/ Paul Cattermole    
 Paul Cattermole    
 Authorised Signatory    
     
 /s/ Ian Graham    
 Ian Graham    
 Authorised Signatory    
 
 
              
 
  
 
 
-95-


EXHIBIT 99.4
 
   EXECUTION  COPY
   
DATED 5 MAY 2005
 
 
 
YORKSHIRE ELECTRICITY DISTRIBUTION plc
 
and
 
AMBAC ASSURANCE UK LIMITED
 
     
     
     
   REIMBURSEMENT AND INDEMNITY AGREEMENT  
     
     

 



CONTENTS
  Clause   Page  
1.
Definitions and Interpretation
3
2.
Representations, Warranties and Covenants
7
3.
Issue of The Financial Guarantee
9
4.
Subrogation
9
5.
Reimbursement Obligation
10
6.
Indemnity
10
7.
Value Added Tax
13
8.
Term of This Agreement
13
9.
Further Assurances
13
10.
Obligations Absolute
14
11.
Assignment
14
12.
Liability of Ambac
14
13.
Payment Procedure
15
14.
Remedies and Waivers
16
15.
Amendment, Partial Invalidity and Counterparts
16
16.
Notices
18
17.
Contracts (Rights Of Third Parties) Act 1999
19
18.
Economic and Monetary Union
19
19.
Confidentiality
19
20.
Law and Jurisdiction
20
     



 
-2-



THIS REIMBURSEMENT AND INDEMNITY AGREEMENT is made by way of deed and dated 5 May 2005
 
BETWEEN :
 
(1)  
YORKSHIRE ELECTRICITY DISTRIBUTION PLC ,   a company incorporated under the laws of England and Wales (registered number 02906593) (the " Issuer ") and;
 
(2)  
AMBAC ASSURANCE UK LIMITED, a company incorporated under the laws of England and Wales (registered number 3248674) (" Ambac ").
 
WHEREAS:
 
(A)  
Pursuant to the Trust Deed, the Issuer will issue the Bonds.
 
(B)  
The Issuer has requested that Ambac issue the Financial Guarantee in respect of all of the Bonds, pursuant to the terms of the Financial Guarantee (the " Guaranteed Obligations ").
 
(C)  
The Issuer will use the proceeds of the Bond issue for, inter alia , the Issuer's general corporate purposes, to repay a portion of the Issuer's indebtedness as it falls due and to meet certain transaction fees and expenses.
(D)  
The Parties hereto agree that the issue of the Financial Guarantee is conditional upon the satisfaction of certain conditions precedent as set out in the Subscription Agreement.
 
IT IS AGREED AS FOLLOWS :
 
1.     
DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATION
 
1.1   
Definitions
 
1.1.1  
Except as otherwise defined herein, all terms defined in the Financial Guarantee (including definitions incorporated therein by reference to another document) shall have the same respective meanings when used in this Agreement (including the Recitals).
 
1.1.2  
In this Agreement, the following words and expressions shall, except where the context otherwise requires have the following respective meanings:
 
" Agreement " means this Reimbursement and Indemnity Agreement, together with all Recitals thereto.
 
" Applicable   Requirements " means applicable law, the rules of any regulatory authority within a competent jurisdiction, the rules of any applicable stock exchange and any applicable confidentiality requirements.
 
" Bondholder " has the meaning given to that term in the Trust Deed.
 
" Closing Date " means 5 May   2005 or such other date as is agreed between the Issuer and Ambac.
 
" Default Rate " means two per cent. (2%) per annum over the applicable base rate of Citibank N.A., London Branch (or in the absence of such base rate, such base rate as Ambac may determine) from time to time.
 
" Electricity Act " means the Electricity Act 1989 as amended or re-enacted from time to time and all subordinate legislation made pursuant thereto.
 
 
-3-

 
" Electricity Distribution Licence " means the electricity distribution licence granted or treated as granted to NEDL under section 6(1)(c) of the Electricity Act.
 
" Existing Negative Pledge " means the obligations contained in Condition 5 of the terms and conditions of Yorkshire Electricity Distribution plc's £200,000,000 9.25 per cent. Guaranteed Bonds due 2020.
 
" Finance Documents " means the Trust Deed, the Guarantee Fee Letter and this Agreement.
 
" Financial Guarantee " means the financial guarantee dated the date of this Agreement and issued by Ambac in favour of the Trustee in respect of all of the Bonds.
 
" Guarantee Fee Letter " means the fee letter dated 5 May 2005 in respect of the Financial Guarantee.
 
" Indemnified Parties " means Ambac and its officers, directors, shareholders, employees, agents and each person (and their officers, directors, shareholders, employees and agents), if any, who controls Ambac within the meaning of either Section 15 of the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or Section 20 of the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
 
" Issuer Event of Default " has the meaning given to that term in the Conditions.
 
" Offering Circular " means the offering circular in respect of the Bonds dated 5 May 2005.
 
" OFGEM " means the Gas and Electricity Markets Authority and/or the Office of Gas and Electricity Markets, including their successor office or body, as appropriate.
 
" Participating State " means any member state which has adopted the euro as its lawful currency at the relevant time.
 
" Potential Issuer Event of Default " has the meaning given to that term in the Trust Deed.
 
" Put Option " has the meaning given to that term in Condition 13 of the Bonds.
 
" Rating Agencies " means, collectively, Moody's Investor Services Inc. (" Moody's ") and Standard & Poor's Rating Services, a division of The McGraw Hill Companies Inc. (" S&P ") or the successors of such entities as are identified by Ambac.
 
" Relevant Indebtedness " means any indebtedness (whether being principal, premium, interest or other amounts) in the form of or represented by notes, bonds, debentures, debenture stock, loan stock or other securities, whether issued for cash or in whole or in part for a consideration other than cash, and which, with the agreement of the person issuing the same, are quoted, listed or ordinarily dealt in on any stock exchange or recognised over-the-counter or other securities market.
 
-4-

 
" Security Interest " means a mortgage, charge, lien, pledge or other security interest.
 
" Subscription Agreement " means the subscription agreement dated 29 April 2005 between inter alios the Issuer, Ambac and the Royal Bank of Scotland plc (in its capacity as manager of the Bonds).
 
" Subsidiary " means a subsidiary or subsidiary undertaking within the meaning of the Companies Act.
 
" Tax " means any tax, levy, duty or other charge or withholding of a similar nature (including any penalty or interest payable thereon in connection with any failure to pay or any delay in paying the same).
 
" Tax Credit " means a credit against, relief or remission for, or repayment of any Tax.
 
" Tax Deduction " means a deduction or withholding for or on account of Tax from a payment under a Finance Document.
 
" Treaty on European Union " means the Treaty of Rome of 25 March 1957, as amended by the Single European Act 1986 and the Maastricht Treaty (which was signed at Maastricht on 7 February 1992 and came into force on 1 November 1993).
 
" Trustee " means HSBC Trustee (C.I.) Limited or any successor thereto or replacement thereof in accordance with the Trust Deed.
 
" Trust Deed " means the Trust Deed dated on or about the date of this Agreement between the Issuer, Ambac and the Trustee.
 
1.2      
Construction
 
Any reference in this Agreement to:
 
" continuing ", in relation to a Potential Issuer Event of Default, and/or an Issuer Event of Default, shall be construed as a reference to a Potential Issuer Event of Default, and/or an Issuer Event of Default which has not been remedied within any relevant grace period or waived in accordance with the terms hereof;
 
" indebtedness " shall be construed so as to include any obligation (whether incurred as principal or as surety) for the payment or repayment of money, whether present or future, actual or contingent;
 
a "law" shall be construed as any law (including common or customary law), statute, constitution, decree, judgment, treaty, regulation, directive, bye-law, order or any other legislative measure of any government, supranational, local government, statutory or regulatory body or court;
 
a "member state" shall be construed as a reference to a member state of the European Union;

a " person " shall be construed as a reference to any person, firm, company, corporation, government, state or agency of a state or any association or partnership (whether or not having separate legal personality) of two or more of the foregoing;
 
a "successor" shall be construed so as to include an assignee or successor in title of such party and any person who under the laws of its jurisdiction of incorporation or domicile has assumed the rights and obligations of such party under this Agreement or to which, under such laws, such rights and obligations have been transferred;
" VAT " shall be construed as a reference to value added tax including any similar tax which may be imposed in place thereof from time to time; and
 
the " winding-up ", " dissolution " or " administration " of a company or corporation shall be construed so as to include any equivalent or analogous proceedings under the law of the jurisdiction in which such company or corporation is incorporated or any jurisdiction in which such company or corporation carries on business including the seeking of liquidation, winding-up, reorganisation, dissolution, administration, arrangement, adjustment, protection or relief of debtors.
 
-5-

 
1.3     
Currency Symbols
 
1.3.1  
" £ " and " sterling " denote lawful currency of the United Kingdom.
 
1.3.2  
" euro " and " EUR " means the single currency of the European Union as constituted by the Treaty on European Union and "euro unit" means the currency unit of the euro.
 
1.4     
Agreements and Statutes
 
Any reference in this Agreement to:
 
1.4.1  
this Agreement or any other agreement or document shall be construed as a reference to this Agreement or, as the case may be, such other agreement or document as the same may have been, or may from time to time be, amended, varied, novated or supplemented; and
 
1.4.2  
a statute or treaty shall be construed as a reference to such statute or treaty as the same may have been, or may from time to time be, amended or, in the case of a statute, re-enacted.
 
1.5    
Time
 
Any reference in this Agreement to a time of day shall, unless a contrary indication appears, be a reference to London time.
 
1.6    
Trustee
 
For the purposes of this Agreement, the Trustee shall be regarded always as acting for itself and on behalf of the Bondholders only.
 
1.7    
Headings
 
The headings contained in this Agreement are provided for convenience only and shall not affect its construction or interpretation.
 
 
-6-

 
2.     
REPRESENTATIONS, WARRANTIES AND COVENANTS  
 
2.1   
Representations and warranties of the Issuer
 
(a)  
The Issuer represents to Ambac that the representations and warranties made by the Issuer, on its own behalf and contained in Clause 3 of the Subscription Agreement and in any other Finance Documents are true and correct in all respects on the date made.
 
(b)  
The Issuer makes each of the representations and warranties made by it under Clause 3 of the Subscription Agreement and in any other Finance Documents to Ambac on the date of this Agreement and on the Closing Date and on any other date on which such representations and warranties are deemed to be repeated in the relevant Finance Document as if those representations and warranties were set out in this Agreement mutatis mutandis .
 
(c)  
The Issuer represents to Ambac that, except for the Put Option described in Condition 13 of the Bonds, there are no put options, or any other rights in either case having substantially the same effect as the Put Option, in relation to any indebtedness of the Issuer, other than the obligations contained in Condition 8 ( Redemption at the Option of Bondholders ) of Yorkshire Electricity Distribution plc's £200,000,000 9.25 per cent Guaranteed Bonds due 2020.
 
(d)  
The Issuer represents to Ambac that there are no negative pledges, or any other restrictions over the granting of any Security Interest upon, or with respect to, any Relevant Indebtedness of the Issuer, other than the Existing Negative Pledge, the Negative Pledge described in Condition 4 of the Bonds, (at any time that the Issuer is a "Significant Subsidiary" as defined in the CE UK Indenture) the obligations contained in Section 1014 ( Limitation on Liens ) of the Indenture dated as of December 15, 1997 (the "CE UK Indenture") between, inter alios, CE Electric UK Funding Company and The Bank of New York as Trustee and relating to, inter alia, CE Electric UK Funding Company's US$237,000,000 6.995% Senior Notes due 2007, the obligations contained in Condition 5 ( Negative Pledge ) of CE Electric UK Funding Company's £200,000,000 7.25% Guaranteed Bonds due 2022, the obligations contained in Condition 3 of the Yorkshire Power Finance Limited £200,000,000 7.25% Guaranteed Bonds due 2028 and (at any time that the Issuer is a "Significant Subsidiary" as defined in the Yorkshire Power Indenture) the obligations contained in Section 1004 ( Limitation on Liens ) of the Indenture dated as of February 1, 1998 (the "Yorkshire Power Indenture") between, inter alios, Yorkshire Power Finance Limited, Yorkshire Power Group Limited and The Bank of New York and relating to, inter alia, Yorkshire Power Finance Limited's U.S.$300,000,000 6.496% Senior Notes due 2008.
 
 
 
-7-

 
2.2    
Covenants of the Issuer
 
The Issuer agrees for the benefit of Ambac as follows:
 
(a)  
it will comply with the undertakings and covenants set out in the Finance Documents to which it is a party including without limitation in Clause 4 of the Subscription Agreement as if such covenants were incorporated mutatis mutandis into this Agreement;
 
(b)  
it will forthwith notify Ambac of anything which has or may reasonably be expected to have rendered untrue or incorrect in any respect any of the representations and warranties in Clause 2.1 of this Agreement and which is material in the context of the issue and offering of the Bonds and of the transactions contemplated by the Finance Documents or the issue of the Financial Guarantee;
 
(c)  
it will provide Ambac with any information, notices, including, inter alia , management accounts (in such form as they are produced by the Issuer), audited financial statements and other financial information promptly on request after the same become available;
 
(d)  
subject to Applicable Requirements, that the duties and obligations of the Issuer herein shall continue in full force and effect until all of its obligations under the Finance Documents have been fully and irrevocably discharged, notwithstanding payment by the Issuer of all amounts due in respect of the Bonds;
 
(e)  
that, prior to the Trustee presenting a Notice of Demand to Ambac, the Issuer will have utilised all other financial resources available to it for the purposes of paying interest and/or principal and/or any other sums due to the Bondholders of the relevant Bonds;
 
(f)  
subject to Applicable Requirements, it will, upon reasonable prior notice by Ambac make appropriate management personnel available for a meeting (whether conducted over the telephone or otherwise) with Ambac at a mutually acceptable time and place to discuss the Issuer's operational and financial performance over the preceding financial year and its financial plans for the next three years;
 
(g)  
subject to Applicable Requirements, it will, as soon as reasonably practicable after request by Ambac, provide appropriate personnel for a meeting (whether conducted over the telephone or otherwise) with Ambac at a mutually acceptable time and place if there occurs a significant change in the financial position of the Issuer or any Subsidiary which is material to the Issuer as shown in its most recent financial statements or in any report produced by OFGEM concerning the Issuer or any of its Subsidiaries;
 
(h)  
in consideration for Ambac's issuance of the Financial Guarantee, it will, on the terms and subject to the conditions of this Agreement:
 
 
 
-8-

 
(i)  
pay or procure the payment, from time to time, of any Guarantee Fees due and payable to Ambac in accordance with the Guarantee Fee Letter and this Agreement;
 
(j)  
promptly pay to Ambac, all and any sums and fees due and payable to Ambac under the Finance Documents including, for the avoidance of doubt, (if applicable) the amount equal to the loss, liability or cost which Ambac determines will be or has been (directly or indirectly) suffered for or on account of any Tax by Ambac (except any Tax by reference to the net income received or receivable by Ambac) or in respect of, or applicable to, the payment of such sums and fees, as provided for in the Finance Documents; and
 
(k)  
indemnify and reimburse Ambac on the terms of this Agreement.
 
3.    
ISSUE OF THE FINANCIAL GUARANTEE  
 
The obligation of Ambac to issue the Financial Guarantee on the Closing Date is subject to:
 
3.1  
satisfaction or waiver by Ambac (at its sole discretion) of all the conditions precedent set out in the Subscription Agreement;
 
3.2  
confirmation from the Lead Manager on behalf of the Managers (as defined in the Subscription Agreement) that the conditions precedent set out in Clause 8.3 of the Subscription Agreement have been satisfied, without taking into account any waiver by the Lead Manager of any such condition unless such waiver has been approved by Ambac prior to such waiver being given;
 
3.3  
no Potential Issuer Event of Default or Issuer Event of Default shall have occurred;
 
3.4  
there having been no material adverse change (or event which is likely to result in a material adverse change) in the international or domestic, syndicated debt, bank or capital markets which may prejudice the offering or distribution of any of the Bonds since 29 April 2005; and
 
3.5  
no statute, rule, regulation or order having been executed, entered or deemed applicable by any government or governmental or administrative agency or court having any relevant jurisdiction that would make the transactions contemplated by any of the Finance Documents and the Financial Guarantee illegal or otherwise prevent the consummation thereof.
 
 
4.     
SUBROGATION  
 
4.1  
The Issuer agrees that Ambac shall be subrogated to the rights of the Bondholders to the extent of any payment made by Ambac under the Financial Guarantee.
 
4.2  
The Issuer agrees that it shall not, by reason of any payment by Ambac under the Financial Guarantee be discharged from its obligations under this Agreement.
 
4.3  
The Issuer must take such actions as, in the sole judgment of Ambac, are necessary to evidence such subrogation and to ensure that Ambac receives any moneys paid or payable in respect of the Bonds under the Finance Documents.
 
 
 
-9-

 
5.    
REIMBURSEMENT OBLIGATION
 
5.1  
Reimbursement
 
5.1.1  
The Issuer must reimburse Ambac for any payment made by Ambac under the Financial Guarantee on the day on which Ambac makes a payment under the Financial Guarantee.
 
5.1.2  
If the Issuer is required to reimburse Ambac pursuant to Clause 5.1.1, the Issuer must reimburse Ambac:
 
(a)  
in accordance with Clause 13.2 ( Payments under this Agreement );
 
(b)  
in an amount equal to the aggregate of:
 
(i)  
the amount paid by Ambac pursuant to the Financial Guarantee on that date;
 
(ii)  
all amounts previously paid by Ambac in connection with the Bonds which remain outstanding from the Issuer to Ambac; and
 
(iii)  
interest on any and all amounts which remain outstanding from the Issuer to Ambac (to the extent permitted by law, if in respect of any unreimbursed amounts representing interest) from the date the amounts became due until the date on which the amounts are paid in full, at a rate of interest equal to the Default Rate.
 
5.2    
Costs and Expenses
 
The Issuer must pay to Ambac the amount of all reasonable out-of-pocket costs and expenses properly incurred by it (including, but not limited to, legal fees and expenses, accountants' fees and expenses, and all amounts which Ambac may reasonably require from time to time to compensate it for its internal management and administrative costs and expenses) and applicable VAT thereon in connection with:
 
5.2.1  
any accounts established to facilitate payments under the Financial Guarantee;
 
5.2.2  
the enforcement or exercise of, or preservation of any rights under, any Finance Document; and
 
5.2.3  
any amendment, waiver, consent or other action with respect to, under or pursuant to the Finance Documents, whether or not such amendment, waiver, consent or other action is executed or completed.
 
6.    
INDEMNITY
 
6.1   
Right of Indemnification
 
Subject as provided in Clause 6.5 , the Issuer undertakes to indemnify on demand each of the Indemnified Parties against any loss, liability, costs, claims, damages, expenses or demands (or actions in respect thereof) which any of them may reasonably incur or which may be made against any of them and all amounts which Ambac may require from time to time to compensate it for its internal management and administrative costs and expenses as a consequence of:
 
 
-10-

 
6.1.1       
any representation or warranty of the Issuer under Clause 2.1 ( Representations and Warranties ) not being true or correct when given;
 
6.1.2       
a breach by the Issuer of the covenants set out in Clause 2.2 ( Covenants );
 
6.1.3       
the occurrence of any Potential Issuer Event of Default or Issuer Event of Default;
 
6.1.4       
any actual or alleged omission or action (other than of or by Ambac) in connection with the offering, issue, sale, remarketing or delivery of the Bonds;
 
6.1.5       
any actual or alleged untrue statement in the Offering Circular or any omission to state a material fact required to be stated in the Offering Circular which is the responsibility of the Issuer;
 
6.1.6       
any such Indemnified Party being obliged to indemnify, for whatever reason, the Trustee or any agent, delegate or contractor of the Trustee pursuant to and in accordance with the terms of the Finance Documents; or
 
6.1.7       
investigating any event or circumstance which Ambac in good faith believes might be or become one of those matters referred to in paragraphs 6.1.1 to 6.1.6 or in disputing or defending any claim in relation thereto.
 
 
6.2     
Conduct of Proceedings
 
6.2.1      
If any action or proceeding is brought against any of the Indemnified Parties in respect of which indemnity may be sought under Clause 6.1 ( Right of Indemnification ) of this Agreement from the Issuer, the Indemnified Party must promptly notify the Issuer of the claim in writing.
 
6.2.2      
Subject to Clause 6.2.4 below and no Potential Issuer Event of Default, or Issuer Event of Default having occurred, the Issuer will have the option to assume the defence of any action or proceeding brought against an Indemnified Party, with legal advisers satisfactory to the Indemnified Party (acting reasonably) so long as such Indemnified Party is satisfied (acting reasonably) that any such action by the Issuer shall not be prejudicial to such Indemnified Party.
 
6.2.3      
The Issuer shall not, without the prior written consent of the Indemnified Party, settle or compromise, or consent to the entry of judgment with respect to, any action or proceeding to which this Clause 6.2 relates unless such settlement, compromise or consent includes an unconditional release of each Indemnified Party from all liability arising out of the matters which are the subject to such action or proceeding.
 
6.2.4      
If the named parties to any action or proceeding include both the Indemnified Party and the Issuer (or either of them) and the Indemnified Party has been advised by counsel that there may be one or more legal defences available to it which are different from or additional to those available to the Issuer, the Issuer shall not have the right to assume the defence of that action or proceeding on behalf of such Indemnified Party and the Indemnified Party shall have the right to employ separate counsel at the cost of the Issuer and to participate in the defence of any action or proceeding brought against it.
6.2.5      
The Issuer undertakes to indemnify the Indemnified Parties against any loss or liability which any of them incur as a consequence of the settlement of any action or proceeding effected:
 
(a)  
with the prior written consent of the Issuer (which consent must not be unreasonably withheld);
 
(b)  
in circumstances where the Issuer has been given notice of the action or proceeding and has declined the option to defend such action or proceeding under Clause 6.2.2 above; or
 
(c)  
if the circumstances set out in Clause 6.2.4 above exist and the Issuer has been given notice of the proceedings and of the advice of counsel regarding the availability of separate defences (as described at Clause 6.2.4 above).
 
 
 
-11-

 
6.3     
Other Indemnifications
 
Ambac shall not be obliged to first pursue any recovery under any other indemnity or reimbursement obligation before seeking recovery under the indemnification and reimbursement obligation of the Issuer under this Agreement.
 
6.4     
Payments
 
Any amount that becomes payable by the Issuer under Clause 6.1 ( Right of Indemnification) shall be immediately due and payable on demand.
 
6.5    
Limitation on Indemnification
 
The Issuer shall not be under any obligation to indemnify any Indemnified Party for any liability, damages, demands, claims, cost, loss, or expense (or action in respect thereof) which arises as a result of the Indemnified Party's own fraud, negligence or wilful default. No amount shall be payable by the Issuer in respect of the indemnity in Clause 6.1 in respect of any loss, liability, costs, claims, damages, expenses or demands (or actions in respect thereof) in respect of which the Issuer has indemnified the relevant Indemnified Party pursuant to any other Finance Document and has satisfied its obligations in respect of such indemnity.
 
6.6      
Continuing Indemnity
 
This shall be a continuing indemnity and shall:
 
6.6.1       
extend to the ultimate balance of the sums and liabilities which are or may become owing to an Indemnified Party under this Agreement; and
 
6.6.2       
continue in force notwithstanding any intermediate payment in whole or in part of the sums and liabilities which are or may become owing to Ambac under this Agreement.
 
 
 
-12-

 
7.       
VALUE ADDED TAX
 
7.1     
VAT Chargeable
 
All amounts expressed to be payable under a Finance Document by the Issuer to Ambac shall be deemed to be exclusive of any VAT. If VAT is chargeable on any supply made by the Issuer to Ambac in connection with a Finance Document, the Issuer shall pay to Ambac (in addition to and at the same time as paying the consideration), an amount equal to the amount of the VAT.
 
7.2     
Reimbursement
 
Where a Finance Document requires the Issuer to reimburse and/or indemnify Ambac for any losses, costs or expenses (including legal fees), the Issuer shall also, on demand, pay and indemnify Ambac against any irrecoverable VAT incurred by Ambac in respect of such losses, costs or expenses.
 
8.     
TERM OF THIS AGREEMENT
 
8.1   
Subject to Clause 8.2 below, this Agreement shall take effect on the Closing Date and shall terminate on the date which is the later of:
 
8.1.1       
the date on which Ambac is no longer subject to a claim (including any claim arising from a payment made by the Issuer being declared a preference) under the Financial Guarantee ; and
 
8.1.2       
the date on which all amounts payable to Ambac by the Issuer under this Agreement and all amounts (actually or contingently) payable under the Bonds have been paid in full.
 
8.2     
The provisions of Clauses 1 ( Definitions and Interpretation ), 4 ( Subrogation ), 5 ( Reimbursement Obligation ), 6 ( Indemnity ), 7 ( Value Added Tax ) and this Clause 8 shall survive any termination of this Agreement.
 
9.       
FURTHER ASSURANCES
 
The Issuer shall, so far as permitted by applicable law and regulatory requirements, execute within a reasonable time of a request by Ambac all such further documents and do all such further acts and things as may, in the reasonable opinion of Ambac, be necessary at any time to give effect to the provisions or to facilitate the performance of this Agreement and any other Finance Document to which the Issuer is a party.
 
-13-

 
10.    
OBLIGATIONS ABSOLUTE
 
Neither the obligations of the Issuer under this Agreement nor the rights, powers and remedies conferred on Ambac in respect of the Issuer by this Agreement or by law shall be discharged, impaired or otherwise affected by:
 
10.1    
the winding-up, dissolution, administration or re-organisation of the Issuer or any other person or any change in its status, control or ownership;
 
10.2    
any of the obligations of the Issuer under any of the Finance Documents being or becoming illegal, invalid, unenforceable or ineffective in any respect;
 
10.3    
any time or other indulgence being granted to the Issuer in respect of its respective obligations under any of the Finance Documents;
 
10.4    
any amendment to, or any variation, waiver, exchange or release of, any obligation of the Issuer under any of the Finance Documents;
 
10.5    
the existence of any claim, set-off or any other right that the Issuer may have against Ambac;
 
10.6    
any other circumstances, other than payment in full, that might otherwise constitute a defence available to, or discharge of, the Issuer in respect of the Finance Documents;
 
10.7    
any document presented in connection with the Financial Guarantee proving to be forged or fraudulent (other than forgery or fraud caused by Ambac), invalid or insufficient in any respect or any statement in any document being untrue or inaccurate in any respect; and
 
10.8    
any payment by Ambac under the Financial Guarantee against presentation of a certificate or other document that does not strictly comply with the terms of the Financial Guarantee.
 
11.      
ASSIGNMENT  
 
The Issuer may not assign any of their rights or transfer any of their rights or obligations under this Agreement without the prior written consent of Ambac.
 
12.     
LIABILITY OF AMBAC
 
Neither Ambac nor any of its officers, directors or employees shall be liable or responsible for:
 
12.1   
the use of the Financial Guarantee by the Trustee;
 
12.2   
any acts or omissions of the Trustee in connection with the use of the Financial Guarantee by the Trustee; or
 
12.3   
the validity of documents delivered to Ambac in connection with any claim under the Financial Guarantee, or of any signatures thereon, even if such documents or signatures should in fact prove to be in any or all respects invalid, insufficient or (unless relevant officers of Ambac shall have actual knowledge thereof) fraudulent or forged.
 
 
 
-14-

 
13.    
PAYMENT PROCEDURE
 
13.1   
Payments by Ambac
 
Ambac may rely on any documents delivered to it in connection with any claim under the Financial Guarantee which appear on their face to be in order, without responsibility for further investigation.
 
13.2    
Payments under this Agreement
 
The Issuer must make all payments to be made under this Agreement:
 
13.2.1     
without set-off or counterclaim;
 
13.2.2     
on the date on which such payment becomes due and payable (and in respect of any payment made by Ambac under the Financial Guarantee, the date on which Ambac makes such payment);
 
13.2.3     
in the currency in which the relevant Bonds are denominated (in relation to any payments relating to such Bonds) or in the currency in which the amounts are incurred by Ambac (in relation to costs, fees, liabilities and other indemnities);
 
13.2.4     
in immediately available funds to the account number specified in the Guarantee Fee Letter (or to such other account as Ambac may direct by written notice to the Issuer); and
 
13.2.5     
without any Tax Deduction, unless a Tax Deduction is required by law (in which case, the amount of the payment due from the Issuer must be increased to an amount which (after making the Tax Deduction) leaves an amount equal to the payment which would have been due if no Tax Deduction had been required).
 
13.3     
Interest on late payments
 
All payments to be made by the Issuer under this Agreement shall bear interest at the Default Rate from the date due to (and including) the date paid (both before and after any judgment or other order of a court of competent jurisdiction).
 
13.4    
Determination of amount due
 
Any certification or determination by Ambac of a rate or amount made pursuant to the terms of this Agreement will be, in the absence of manifest error, conclusive evidence of the matters to which it relates.
13.5     
Tax Credit
 
If the Issuer makes a Tax Deduction pursuant to and in accordance with Clause 13.2.5 and Ambac determines (in its absolute discretion) that:
 
13.5.1      
a Tax Credit is attributable to that tax payment; and
 
13.5.2      
Ambac has obtained, utilised and retained that Tax Credit,
 
Ambac shall pay an amount to the Issuer which Ambac determines (acting reasonably and in good faith) will leave it (after that payment) in the same after-tax position as it would have been in had such Tax Deduction not been made by the Issuer.
 
 
-15-

 
13.6    
Tax Liability
 
Nothing in this Agreement shall interfere with the right of Ambac to arrange its tax affairs in whatever manner it thinks fit and, in particular, Ambac shall be under no obligation to claim credit, relief, remission, repayment or other benefit from or against its tax liability in respect of the amount of such deduction in priority to any other similar claims, reliefs, credits or deductions available to it, nor shall Ambac be under any obligation to disclose to the Issuer any information in relation to Ambac's tax affairs.
 
14.      
REMEDIES AND WAIVERS
 
14.1    
The rights of Ambac under this Agreement:
 
14.1.1     
may be exercised as often as is necessary;
 
14.1.2     
are cumulative and not exclusive of its rights under the general law; and
 
14.1.3     
are in addition to any rights and remedies provided for in the Finance Documents; and
 
14.1.4     
may be waived only in writing.
 
14.2    
Any delay in exercising or non-exercise by Ambac of any right of Ambac under this Agreement is not a waiver of that right.
 
14.3    
Ambac shall have the right to exercise in its complete discretion the waiver of any default under this Agreement by written notice setting forth the terms, conditions and extent of such waiver. Unless such notice expressly provides to the contrary, any waiver so granted shall extend only to the specific event or occurrence which gave rise to the Default so waived and not to any other similar event or occurrence which occurs subsequent to the date of such waiver.
 
15.      
AMENDMENT, PARTIAL INVALIDITY AND COUNTERPARTS
 
15.1    
Amendment
 
This Agreement may be amended, modified or terminated only by written instrument or written instruments signed by the parties hereto.
 
 
-16-

 
15.2    
Partial Invalidity
 
If, at any time, any provision hereof is or becomes illegal, invalid or unenforceable in any respect under the law of any jurisdiction, neither the legality, validity or enforceability of the remaining provisions hereof nor the legality, validity or enforceability of such provision under the law of any other jurisdiction shall in any way be affected or impaired thereby. The parties further agree that the holding by any court of competent jurisdiction that any remedy pursued by any party hereto is unavailable or unenforceable shall not affect in any way the ability of such party to pursue any other remedy available to it.
15.3    
Counterparts
 
This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts and all such counterparts shall constitute one and the same instrument.
 
 
-17-

 
16.     
NOTICES
 
16.1   
Communications in Writing
 
Each communication to be made hereunder shall be made in writing and, unless otherwise stated, shall be made by facsimile or letter delivered by registered post or courier as follows:-
 
(i)           
To Ambac:
Ambac Assurance UK Limited
Hasilwood House
60 Bishopsgate
London EC2N 4BE
Fax:     +44 20 7786 4343
Tel:     +44 20 7786 4300
Attention:   Surveillance


(ii)         
To the Issuer:
Yorkshire Electricity Distribution plc
Lloyd's Court
78 Grey Street
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE1 6AF

Fax:     +44 191 223 5142
Attention:   Finance Director
16.2    
Delivery
 
Any communication or document to be made or delivered by one person to another pursuant to this Agreement shall (unless the intended recipient has by ten days' written notice to the sender specified another address) be made or delivered to that other person at the address identified in this Clause 16 ( Notices ) and shall be deemed to have been made or delivered:
 
16.2.1      
(in the case of any communication made by letter) when delivered to that address; or
 
16.2.2      
(in the case of any communication by fax) when transmission of such fax communication has been received in legible form and receipt has been confirmed, and communication verified, by telephone (save for any communications to Ambac, where such communication shall be deemed to be received on the day it is actually received and then only if expressly marked for the attention of the officer identified with the signature of Ambac below, or such other officer as Ambac shall from time to time specify for this purpose) provided that in either case if such communication or document would otherwise be deemed to have been received or actually received on a day which is not a business day or, for the avoidance of doubt, falls outside business hours, it shall be deemed to have been received on the next subsequent business day.
 
 
 
-18-

 
16.3    
English Language
 
Each communication and document made or delivered by one party to another pursuant to this Agreement shall be in the English language.
 
17.     
CONTRACTS (RIGHTS OF THIRD PARTIES) ACT 1999
 
A person who is not a party to this Agreement has no right under the Contracts (Rights of Third Parties) Act 1999 to enforce any term of this Agreement.
 
18.      
ECONOMIC AND MONETARY UNION
 
If, during the duration of this Agreement, the United Kingdom becomes a Participating Member State and, as a result, the Bank of England recognises the euro as the lawful currency of the United Kingdom, then:
 
18.1.1     
unless prohibited by law, Ambac may designate the currency or currency unit in which any obligations arising under this Agreement otherwise payable in Sterling are to be denominated or payable;
 
18.1.2     
unless prohibited by law, any translation from one currency or currency unit to another shall be made at the official rate of exchange recognised by the Bank of England for conversion, rounded up or down by Ambac; and
 
18.1.3     
this Agreement shall be subject to such reasonable changes of construction as Ambac may specify from time to time to be appropriate to reflect (a) the adoption of the euro in the United Kingdom and (b) any relevant market practices relating to the euro.
 
 
19.     
CONFIDENTIALITY
 
19.1  
Confidential Information
 
Except as permitted or required under this Agreement, all data and information (including the terms of this Agreement) obtained or received from any party hereto under this Agreement shall be treated as confidential for the term of this Agreement and shall not be disclosed to any third party without the prior written consent of the other parties.
 
19.2   
Permitted Disclosure
 
Any party hereto may, without the prior approval of the other parties, disclose such data and information where:
 
19.2.1      
such data and information has come into the public domain other than by any breach of this Agreement;
 
19.2.2      
such disclosure is made to any third party with whom Ambac has dealings (including, any affiliate of Ambac); or
 
19.2.3      
such data and information is made available to professional advisors of Ambac the Issuer for the purpose of performing their duties;
 
19.2.4      
such disclosure is required by any applicable law or court order.
 
 
 
-19-

 
20.    
LAW AND JURISDICTION
 
20.1  
English Law
 
This Agreement shall be governed by, and shall be construed in accordance with, the laws of England and Wales.
 
20.2  
English Courts
 
Each party irrevocably agrees that any suit, legal action or proceedings (together in this Clause 20 referred to as " Proceedings ") in connection with this Agreement may be brought in the courts of England.
 
20.3  
Consent to Enforcement
 
Each of the parties hereto hereby consents generally in respect of any Proceedings to the giving of any relief or the issue of any process in connection with such Proceedings including the making, enforcement or execution against any property whatsoever (irrespective of its use or intended use) of any order or judgment which may be made or given in such Proceedings.
 
20.4   
Waiver of Immunity
 
To the extent that the Issuer may in any jurisdiction claim for itself or its assets immunity from suit, execution, attachment (whether in aid of execution, before judgment or otherwise) or other legal process and to the extent that in any such jurisdiction there may be attributed to itself or its assets such immunity (whether or not claimed), the Issuer hereby irrevocably agrees not to claim and hereby irrevocably waives such immunity to the full extent permitted by the laws of such jurisdiction.
 
IN WITNESS whereof this Agreement has been executed as a deed by the parties hereto and is intended to be and is hereby delivered on the date first above written.


-20-


EXECUTED as a deed by
YORKSHIRE ELECTRICITY DISTRIBUTION plc
acting by

/s/ Ken Linge
Ken Linge
 
/s/ John Elliott
John Elliott

EXECUTED as a deed by
AMBAC ASSURANCE UK LIMITED
 

/s/  Thomas Jacquot
Signature of director
 
Thomas Jacquot
Name of director
 
 
-21-






EXHIBIT 99.5
 
 
C  L  I  F  F  O  R  D LIMITED LIABILITY PARTNERSHIP 
C  H  A  N  C  E
 
  EXECUTION COPY  
 





CE ELECTRIC UK FUNDING COMPANY
 
AND
 
AMBAC ASSURANCE UK LIMITED
 
AND
 
THE LAW DEBENTURE TRUST CORPORATION p.l.c.



SUPPLEMENTAL TRUST DEED
 
in relation to the
 
£200,000,000 7.25% Guaranteed Bonds due 2022
unconditionally and irrevocably guaranteed as to scheduled payments
of principal and interest pursuant to a financial guarantee issued by
AMBAC Assurance UK Limited



 



CONTENTS
   
Clause
 
Page
1.
DEFINITIONS
1
2.
ACKNOWLEDGMENT
1
3.
AMENDMENT
2
4.
COUNTERPARTS
2
5.
GOVERNING LAW
2
6.
THIRD PARTY RIGHTS
2
7.
FURTHER ASSURANCE
2
SCHEDULE 1
Amendments to Terms and Conditions
3


 

 
THIS SUPPLEMENTAL TRUST DEED is made on 5 May 2005
 
BETWEEN
 
(1)  
CE ELECTRIC UK FUNDING COMPANY (the " Issuer "), a company incorporated in England and Wales with unlimited liability under registered number 3476201;
 
(2)  
AMBAC ASSURANCE UK LIMITED (" Ambac "), a company incorporated in England and Wales with limited liability under registered number 3248674; and
 
(3)  
THE LAW DEBENTURE TRUST CORPORATION p.l.c. , a company incorporated in England and Wales with limited liability under registered number 1675231 (the " Trustee ", which expression shall, where the context so admits, include all persons for the time being the trustee or trustees of the Trust Deed (as defined below)).
 
 
WHEREAS
 
(A)  
The The Issuer has issued £200,000,000 7.25% Guaranteed Bonds due 2022 (the " Bonds ") unconditionally and irrevocably guaranteed as to scheduled payments of principal and interest pursuant to a financial guarantee issued by Ambac.
 
(B)  
The parties hereto have executed a trust deed constituting the Bonds, dated 15 December 1997 (as amended and/or supplemented from time to time, the " Trust Deed ").
 
(C)  
The parties wish to amend and modify the Trust Deed as set out in this instrument, which is supplemental to the Trust Deed.
 
 
NOW THIS DEED WITNESSES AND IT IS HEREBY DECLARED as follows:
 
1.    
DEFINITIONS
 
Words and expressions defined in the Trust Deed (or incorporated therein by reference) shall, except where the context otherwise requires, have the same meanings in this Supplemental Trust Deed. If there is any inconsistency between the definitions herein and the Trust Deed the definitions used herein shall apply.
 
2.    
ACKNOWLEDGMENT
 
2.1  
The parties hereto agree and acknowledge that (i) Ambac is the Controlling Party for the purposes of the Bonds, (ii) Ambac has given written notice to the Trustee of its intention to exercise the Trust Rights, and (iii) Ambac has directed the Trustee to consent to the amendments and modifications to the Trust Deed set out herein.
 
2.2  
The Trustee, by its execution hereof, hereby consents to such amendments and modifications.
 
 
 
-1-

 
3.    
AMENDMENT
 
3.1  
The Conditions shall be amended as set out in Schedule 1 hereto.
 
3.2  
The Bonds currently outstanding shall be deemed amended and modified to conform to the amendments and modifications herein contemplated with effect from the date hereof.
 
3.3  
Clause 10 ( Covenants by the Issuer in favour of Ambac ) of the Trust Deed shall be amended by the deletion of sub-paragraph (A) and the substitution of the following:
 
"not modify or amend, or agree to any modification or amendment to any Electricity Distribution Licence without the consent of OFGEM;"
 
4.    
COUNTERPARTS
 
This Supplemental Trust Deed may be signed in any number of counterparts, all of which taken together shall constitute one and the same instrument.
 
5.    
GOVERNING LAW
 
This Supplemental Trust Deed is governed by, and shall be construed in accordance with, English law.
 
6.     
THIRD PARTY RIGHTS
 
A person who is not a party hereto has no right under the Contracts (Rights of Third Parties) Act 1999 to enforce any term of this Supplemental Trust Deed.
 
7.    
FURTHER ASSURANCE
 
The parties agree to take such action and enter into such documents, agreements or deeds as are necessary or desirable to give effect to this Supplemental Trust Deed.
 
THIS SUPPLEMENTAL TRUST DEED has been executed as a deed by all the parties hereto and is delivered by them on the date specified above.
 

 
-2-

 
SCHEDULE 1

Amendments to Terms and Conditions
 
1.    
The Terms and Conditions shall be amended as follows:
 
1.1  
By the deletion of Condition 4 ( Limitation on Distributions ) in its entirety and the substitution of the following:
 
"4.   Limitation on Distributions
 
The Company has undertaken with Ambac that so long as any of the Bonds remain outstanding and for so long as no Ambac Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, the Company will not make any Distribution unless:
 
(i)    
in the period commencing on 5 May 2005 and ending on 30 December 2006, the ratio of Consolidated Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Distribution is to be made and calculated on a pro forma basis as if the Distribution had been made) to RAV does not exceed 0.79:1; or
 
(ii)   
in the period commencing on 31 December 2006 and ending on 30 December 2007, the ratio of Consolidated Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Distribution is to be made and calculated on a pro forma basis as if the Distribution had been made) to RAV does not exceed 0.77:1; or
 
(iii)  
on or after 31 December 2007, the ratio of Consolidated Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Distribution is to be made and calculated on a pro forma basis as if the Distribution had been made) to RAV does not exceed 0.75:1."
 
1.2  
By the deletion in its entirety of the definition of "Interest Coverage Ratio" in Condition 3 ( Definitions ).
 
1.3  
By the addition in Condition 3 ( Definitions ) of the following definitions:
 
" Cash Equivalents " means investments in sterling demand or time deposits, certificates of deposit and short term debt obligations (including commercial paper), synthetic sterling deposits, shares in money market liquidity funds or a guaranteed investment contract, provided that in all cases such investments have a maturity of not longer than nine months from the date of their acquisition subject to meeting the following credit criteria: (1) money market funds with a minimum credit rating of AAA or equivalent from any two Rating Agencies (or, in the case of shares in money market liquidity funds, from any single Rating Agency); (2) all other counterparties and other specific instruments with a minimum short term credit rating of A-1 from S&P or of P-1 from Moody's.
 
 
-3-

 
" Consolidated Senior   Total Net Debt " means, at any time, the aggregate amount (without double counting) of all obligations of the Group for or in respect of Financial Indebtedness (other than between members of the Group) which ranks at least pari passu with the Bonds but:
 
(i)    
deducting the aggregate amount of all obligations of any member of the Group in respect of Project Finance Indebtedness;  
 
(ii)   
deducting the aggregate amount of all obligations of any member of the Group in respect of Financial Indebtedness to the extent that the repayment or redemption of such Financial Indebtedness is provided for by the purchase by a member of the Group of a GIC; and
 
(iii)  
deducting the aggregate amount of freely available cash and Cash Equivalents held by any member of the Group at such time,
 
and so that no amount shall be excluded more than once.
 
" Electricity Distribution Licence " means the electricity distribution licence granted or treated as granted to Northern Electric Distribution Limited or Yorkshire Electricity Distribution plc under section 6(1)(c) of the Electricity Act.
 
" Final Proposals " means the final proposals document published by OFGEM for each electricity distribution price control review.
 
" Financial Indebtedness " means, at any time, the outstanding principal, capital or nominal amount and any fixed or minimum premium payable on prepayment or redemption of any indebtedness for or in respect of:
 
(i)     
moneys borrowed and debit balances with financial institutions;
 
(ii)    
any amount raised by acceptance under any acceptance credit facility;
 
(iii)   
any amount raised pursuant to any note purchase facility or the issue of bonds, notes, debentures, loan stock or any similar instrument;
 
(iv)   
the amount of any liability in respect of any lease or hire purchase contract which would, in accordance with UK GAAP, be treated as a finance or capital lease;
 
 
 
-4-

 
(v)    
receivables sold or discounted (other than any receivables to the extent they are sold on a non-recourse basis);
 
(vi)   
any counter-indemnity obligation in respect of a guarantee, indemnity, bond, standby or documentary letter of credit or any other instrument issued by a bank or financial institution (excluding any given in respect of trade credit arising in the ordinary course of business);
 
(vii)   
any amount raised by the issue of redeemable shares which are redeemable prior to 15 December 2022;
 
(viii)  
any amount raised under any other transaction (including any forward sale or purchase agreement) having the commercial effect of a borrowing; and
 
(ix)     
(without double counting) the amount of any liability in respect of any guarantee or indemnity for any of the items referred to in paragraphs (i) to (viii) above.
 
 
" GIC " means each of (i) the investment agreement dated on or about 28 April 2005 between Ambac Capital Funding, Inc., Ambac Assurance UK Limited and Northern Electric Distribution Limited and/or Northern Electric Finance plc, (ii) the investment agreement dated on or about 28 April 2005 between Ambac Capital Funding, Inc., Ambac Assurance UK Limited and Yorkshire Electricity Distribution plc and (iii) any other guaranteed investment contract or similar investment agreement with a maturity of 60 months or less from the date of purchase and which is provided by a counterparty which has or whose obligations under such guaranteed investment contract or other agreement are guaranteed by an entity that has a credit rating of at least AA- from S&P and Aa3 from Moody's.
 
" OFGEM " means the Gas and Electricity Markets Authority and/or the Office of Gas and Electricity Markets, including their successor office or body, as appropriate.
" Regulated Asset Value " or " RAV " means the aggregate regulatory asset value of Northern Electric Distribution Limited and Yorkshire Electricity Distribution plc, as set out in the most recent Final Proposals, adjusted for inflation, as of the 31 March nearest to the date on which the Company proposes to make any Distribution, provided that there shall be included in any determination of RAV the value of any assets which were included in RAV as at 31 March 2005 but which (i) subsequently are excluded from RAV by OFGEM, (ii) have become subject to a separate price control arrangement, and (iii) are still owned by Northern Electric Distribution Limited or Yorkshire Electricity Distribution plc as of the date of determination of RAV, and provided further that if at any time OFGEM alters its methodology of determining RAV in a manner which results in a change in RAV, the Company and Ambac shall promptly in good faith negotiate appropriate adjustments to this definition (and to other terms defined or described herein solely for the purposes of this definition) so that the original intent of the undertaking set forth in Condition 4 is preserved and in the absence of agreement between the Company and Ambac within 60 days, such adjustments shall be determined by an independent accountant experienced in the regulated electricity distribution market selected by the Company.
 
 
-5-

 
1.4  
Condition 11 ( The Company's Covenants to Ambac ) shall be amended as follows:
 
by the deletion of sub-paragraph (a) and the substitution of the following:
 
"not modify or amend, or agree to any modification or amendment to any Electricity Distribution Licence without the consent of OFGEM;".

-6-


EXECUTION PAGE



EXECUTED as a DEED and delivered by
)
 
CE ELECTRIC UK FUNDING COMPANY
)
 
acting by a Director and the Secretary
)
 
     
     
/s/ Patrick  Goodman
   
Patrick  Goodman      
Director
   
     
 /s/ John Elliott    
John Elliott
   
Secretary
   


EXECUTED and DELIVERED as a DEED
)
Seal
under the Common Seal of
)
 
AMBAC ASSURANCE UK LIMITED
)
 
in the presence of:
)
 
     
 /s/ Thomas Jacquot    
Thomas Jacquot
   
Authorised Signatory
   
     

 

 
EXECUTED and DELIVERED as a DEED
)
Seal
under the Common Seal of
)
 
THE LAW DEBENTURE TRUST
)
 
CORPORATION p.l.c.
)
 
in the presence of:
)
 
     
/s/ Chris Burgess     
Chris Burgess
   
Authorised Signatory
   
     
     
/s/
   
Director
   

-7-


EXHIBIT 99.6
 
 
C  L  I  F  F  O  R  D LIMITED LIABILITY PARTNERSHIP 
C  H  A  N  C  E
 
  EXECUTION COPY  

 
 
 
 
 

CE ELECTRIC UK FUNDING COMPANY
AND
AMBAC ASSURANCE UK LIMITED

 


SECOND SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT
TO
INSURANCE AND INDEMNITY AGREEMENT



 
 

 
 

 
CONTENTS
 
Clause
 
Page
1.
Definitions And Interpretation
1
2.
Undertakings By Ambac
1
3.
Amendments
2
4.
Miscellaneous
7





 


THIS SECOND SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT is made on 5 May 2005
 
BETWEEN
 
(1)  
CE ELECTRIC UK FUNDING COMPANY , a company incorporated under the laws of England and Wales with company registration number 3476201 (the " Issuer "); and
 
(2)  
AMBAC ASSURANCE UK LIMITED , a company incorporated under the laws of England and Wales with company registration number 3248674 (" Ambac ").
 
WHEREAS
 
(A)  
The Issuer has issued £200,000,000 7.25% guaranteed bonds due 2022 (the " Bonds ") constituted by a trust deed dated 15 December 1997 (the " Trust Deed ").
 
(B)  
In connection with the issue of the Bonds, the parties to this Second Supplemental Agreement entered into an insurance and indemnity agreement dated 15 December 1997 (the " Original Agreement ").
 
(C)  
In connection with, among other things, the sale by Northern Electric plc of its entire interest in Northern Electric and Gas 2 Limited (and as more fully described therein) the parties hereto entered into a first supplemental agreement to the Original Agreement dated 19 September 2001.
 
(D)  
The Issuer's subsidiaries Northern Electric Finance plc and Yorkshire Electricity Distribution plc each propose to incur additional indebtedness in the amount of £150,000,000 and £200,000,000, respectively (together, the " New Bond Issuance ").
 
(E)  
In order to permit the New Bond Issuance, and to effect certain other amendments to the Original Agreement and to the terms and conditions (the " Conditions ") of the Bonds, the parties have agreed to amend the Original Agreement as set out herein, and Ambac has agreed to direct The Law Debenture Trust Corporation p.l.c. as trustee of the Bonds (the " Trustee ") to consent to certain amendments to the Conditions.
 
IT IS AGREED AS FOLLOWS:
 
1.     
DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATION
 
1.1  
Unless the context otherwise requires or unless defined in this Second Supplemental Agreement, words and expressions defined in the Original Agreement as amended or supplemented (whether expressly or by incorporation) shall have the same meanings when used in this Second Supplemental Agreement.
 
1.2  
Any reference in this Second Supplemental Agreement to:
 
1.2.1  
the Original Agreement or any other agreement, instrument or document is a reference to the Original Agreement or that other agreement, instrument or document as amended, varied, supplemented or novated; and
 
1.2.2  
a provision of law is a reference to that provision as amended or re-enacted.
 
1.3  
Clause and Schedule headings are for ease of reference only.
 
2.    
UNDERTAKINGS BY AMBAC
 
At the request of the Issuer, and in consideration of the covenants given by the Issuer herein, Ambac hereby undertakes, as the Controlling Party (as defined in the Trust Deed), to give notice to the Trustee pursuant to Condition 16 ( Controlling Party ) of the Bonds and Clause 19 of the Trust Deed that it intends to exercise the Trust Rights (as defined in the Trust Deed) and further undertakes to direct the Trustee, pursuant to Condition 16 ( Controlling Party ) and Clause 19 ( Controlling Party ) of the Trust Deed, to direct the Trustee to (i) consent to the amendments to the Trust Deed set out in a draft supplemental trust deed expected to be dated on or about 5 May 2005, a draft of which has been signed for the purposes of identification by Clifford Chance and Herbert Smith on behalf of, respectively, Ambac and the Issuer (the " Supplemental Trust Deed ") and (ii) enter into the Supplemental Trust Deed for the purposes of effecting such amendments.
 
 
-1-

 
3.    
AMENDMENTS
 
With effect from the date hereof, the Original Agreement shall be amended as follows:
 
3.1  
Article I ( Definitions ) shall be amended by the addition of the following definitions:
 
" Capital Investment " means expenditure of a capital nature.
 
" Cash Equivalents " means investments in sterling demand or time deposits, certificates of deposit and short term debt obligations (including commercial paper), synthetic sterling deposits, shares in money market liquidity funds or a guaranteed investment contract, provided that in all cases such investments have a maturity of not longer than nine months from the date of their acquisition subject to meeting the following credit criteria: (1) money market funds with a minimum credit rating of AAA or equivalent from any two Rating Agencies (or, in the case of shares in money market liquidity funds, from any single Rating Agency); (2) all other counterparties and other specific instruments with a minimum short term credit rating of A-1 from S&P or of P-1 from Moody's.
 
" Consolidated EBIT " means, for the Relevant Period, the profit shown in the consolidated financial statements of the Issuer for that Relevant Period on the line entitled "profits on ordinary activities before interest":
 
(i)            
before taking into account any items treated as exceptional items;
 
(ii)           
after deducting the amount of any profit of any member of the Group which is attributable to minority interests;
 
(iii)          
after deducting the amount of any profit of any investment or entity (which is not itself a member of the Group) in which any member of the Group has an ownership interest to the extent that the amount of such profit included in the financial statements of the Group exceeds the amount (net of applicable withholding tax) received in cash by members of the Group through distributions by such investment or entity;
 
(iv)         
before taking into account any realised and unrealised exchange gains and losses including those arising on translation of currency debt;
 
(v)          
before taking into account any gain or loss arising from an upward or downward revaluation of any asset,
 
in each case, to the extent added, deducted or taken into account, as the case may be, for the purposes of determining profits of the Group from ordinary activities before taxation (and without double counting).
 
" Consolidated Net Finance Charges " means, for any Relevant Period, the aggregate amount of interest paid on Consolidated Senior Total Net Debt (net of interest received and after taking account of payments made and amounts received under any derivatives related to such Consolidated Senior Total Net Debt) included in the consolidated cash flow statement for the Issuer in respect of that Relevant Period.
 
 
-2-

 
" Consolidated Senior   Total Net Debt " means, at any time, the aggregate amount (without double counting) of all obligations of the Group for or in respect of Financial Indebtedness (other than between members of the Group) which ranks at least pari passu with the Bonds but:
 
(i)            
deducting the aggregate amount of all obligations of any member of the Group in respect of Project Finance Indebtedness;  
 
(ii)           
deducting the aggregate amount of all obligations of any member of the Group in respect of Financial Indebtedness to the extent that the repayment or redemption of such Financial Indebtedness is provided for by the purchase by a member of the Group of a GIC; and
 
(iii)          
deducting   the aggregate amount of freely available cash and Cash Equivalents held by any member of the Group at such time,
 
and so that no amount shall be excluded more than once.
 
" Final Proposals " means the final proposals document published by OFGEM for each electricity distribution price control review.
 
" Financial Indebtedness " means, at any time, the outstanding principal, capital or nominal amount and any fixed or minimum premium payable on prepayment or redemption of any indebtedness for or in respect of:
 
(i)            
moneys borrowed and debit balances with financial institutions;
 
(ii)           
any amount raised by acceptance under any acceptance credit facility;
 
(iii)          
any amount raised pursuant to any note purchase facility or the issue of bonds, notes, debentures, loan stock or any similar instrument;
 
(iv)          
the amount of any liability in respect of any lease or hire purchase contract which would, in accordance with UK GAAP, be treated as a finance or capital lease;
 
(v)           
receivables sold or discounted (other than any receivables to the extent they are sold on a non-recourse basis);
 
(vi)          
any counter-indemnity obligation in respect of a guarantee, indemnity, bond, standby or documentary letter of credit or any other instrument issued by a bank or financial institution (excluding any given in respect of trade credit arising in the ordinary course of business);
 
(vii)         
any amount raised by the issue of redeemable shares which are redeemable prior to 15 December 2022;
 
(viii)        
any amount raised under any other transaction (including any forward sale or purchase agreement) having the commercial effect of a borrowing; and
 
(ix)           
(without double counting) the amount of any liability in respect of any guarantee or indemnity for any of the items referred to in paragraphs (i) to (viii) above.
 
" GIC " means each of (i) the investment agreement dated on or about 28 April 2005 between Ambac Capital Funding, Inc., Ambac Assurance UK Limited and NEDL and/or NEF, (ii) the investment agreement dated on or about 28 April 2005 between Ambac Capital Funding, Inc., Ambac Assurance UK Limited and YEDL and (iii) any other guaranteed investment contract or similar investment agreement with a maturity of 60 months or less from the date of purchase and which is provided by a counterparty which has, or whose obligations under such guaranteed investment contract or other agreement are guaranteed by an entity that has, a credit rating of at least AA- from S&P and Aa3 from Moody's.
 
 
-3-

 
" Interest Coverage   Calculation Date " means each of 30 June and 31 December in any year save that the first Interest Coverage Calculation Date shall be 31 December 2005.
 
" NEDL " means Northern Electric Distribution Limited.
 
" NEF " means Northern Electric Finance plc.
 
" OFGEM " means the Gas and Electricity Markets Authority and/or the Office of Gas and Electricity Markets, including their successor office or body, as appropriate.
 
" Operating Company Bonds " means the bonds described in paragraphs (g) and (h) of the definition of "Permitted Financial Indebtedness" set out below.
 
" Permitted Financial Indebtedness " means each and all of the following:
 
(a)           
Financial Indebtedness of the Issuer under the Bonds;
 
(b)           
Financial Indebtedness of any member of the Group outstanding on 5 May 2005 and not otherwise referred to in this definition of "Permitted Financial Indebtedness";
 
(c)           
Financial Indebtedness which cannot and shall not be accelerated and/or repaid if any Issuer Event of Default has occurred and, in each case, is continuing;
 
(d)           
Financial Indebtedness owed by one member of the Group to another member of the Group;
 
(e)           
Financial Indebtedness of NEDL from time to time which does not exceed an aggregate working capital amount of £50,000,000 (or the equivalent amount in one or more currencies);
 
(f)           
Financial Indebtedness of YEDL from time to time which does not exceed an aggregate working capital amount of £75,000,000 (or the equivalent amount in one or more currencies);
 
(g)           
Financial Indebtedness under the £150,000,000 bonds due 2035 issued or to be issued by NEF on or about 5 May 2005 and guaranteed by NEDL and Ambac; and
 
(h)           
Financial Indebtedness under the £200,000,000 bonds due 2035 issued or to be issued by YEDL on or about 5 May 2005 and guaranteed by Ambac.
 
" Regulated Asset Value " or " RAV " means the aggregate of the regulatory asset value of NEDL and YEDL, as set out in the most recent Final Proposals, adjusted for inflation, as of the 31 March nearest to the date on which the relevant member of the Group proposes to incur any further Financial Indebtedness other than Permitted Financial Indebtedness or to make any Distribution, provided that there shall be included in any determination of RAV the value of any assets which were included in RAV as at 31 March 2005 but which (i) subsequently are excluded from RAV by OFGEM, (ii) have become subject to a separate price control arrangement, and (iii) are still owned by NEDL or YEDL as of the date of determination of RAV, and provided further that if at any time OFGEM alters its methodology of determining RAV in a manner which results in a change in RAV, the Issuer and Ambac shall promptly in good faith negotiate appropriate adjustments to this definition (and to other terms defined or described herein solely for the purposes of this definition) so that the original intent of the undertakings set forth in Sections 2.02(j), 2.02(k) and 2.02(o) hereof is preserved and in the absence of agreement between the Issuer and Ambac within 60 days, such adjustments shall be determined by an independent accountant experienced in the regulated electricity distribution market selected by the Issuer.
 
" Relevant Period " means each period of twelve months ending on an Interest Coverage Calculation Date.
 
" YEDL " means Yorkshire Electricity Distribution plc.
 
 
-4-

 
3.2  
Section 2.02 ( Covenants of Issuer ) of the Original Agreement shall be amended as follows:
 
3.2.1  
by the deletion of Section 2.02(j) in its entirety and the substitution of the following as Section 2.02(j):
 
"it will not incur any further Financial Indebtedness other than Permitted Financial Indebtedness unless the following conditions are satisfied:
 
(i)        
if such Financial Indebtedness is incurred:
 
(1)       
in the period commencing on 5 May 2005 and ending on 30 December 2006, the ratio of Consolidated Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Financial Indebtedness is to be incurred and after giving effect to the gross proposed Financial Indebtedness on a pro forma basis but less cash raised to the extent that it is retained for (i) redemption of existing indebtedness or (ii) Capital Investment) to RAV does not exceed 0.79:1; or
 
(2)      
in the period commencing on 31 December 2006 and ending on 30 December 2007, the ratio of Consolidated Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Financial Indebtedness is to be incurred and after giving effect to the gross proposed Financial Indebtedness on a pro forma basis but less cash raised to the extent that it is retained for (i) redemption of existing indebtedness or (ii) Capital Investment) to RAV does not exceed 0.77:1; or
 
(3)      
on or after 31 December 2007, the ratio of Consolidated Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Financial Indebtedness is to be incurred and after giving effect to the gross proposed Financial Indebtedness on a pro forma basis but less cash raised to the extent that it is retained for (i) redemption of existing indebtedness or (ii) Capital Investment) to RAV does not exceed 0.75:1; and
 
(ii)       
such Financial Indebtedness (save for any Financial Indebtedness which in aggregate does not exceed 5% of RAV) ranks no higher than pari passu with the Bonds;"
 
3.2.2  
by the deletion of Section 2.02(k) in its entirety and the substitution of the following as Section 2.02(k):
 
"it will procure that none of its Subsidiaries will incur any further Financial Indebtedness other than Permitted Financial Indebtedness save that any Subsidiary that carries on any regulated distribution business (a " distribution Subsidiary "), or any Subsidiary that guarantees any Financial Indebtedness of any distribution Subsidiary, may incur Financial Indebtedness other than Permitted Financial Indebtedness where the following conditions are satisfied:
 
(1)       
if such Financial Indebtedness is incurred:
 
(i)   
in the period commencing on 5 May 2005 and ending on 30 December 2008, the ratio of Consolidated Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Financial Indebtedness is to be incurred and after giving effect to the gross proposed Financial Indebtedness on a pro forma basis but less cash raised to the extent that it is retained for (i) redemption of existing indebtedness or (ii) Capital Investment) to RAV does not exceed 0.68:1; or
 
(ii)    on or after 31 December 2008, the ratio of Consolidated Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Financial Indebtedness is to be incurred and after giving effect to the gross proposed Financial Indebtedness on a pro forma basis but less cash raised to the extent that it is retained for (i) redemption of existing indebtedness or (ii) Capital Investment) to RAV does not exceed 0.65:1; and
 
 
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(2)       
such Financial Indebtedness (save for any Financial Indebtedness which in aggregate does not exceed 5% of RAV) ranks no higher than pari passu with the present and future unsecured payment obligations of the relevant Subsidiary;"
 
3.2.3  
by the deletion of Section 2.02(m) in its entirety and the substitution of the following as Section 2.02(m):
 
"it will ensure that its Interest Cover for each Relevant Period is not less than 2.00:1 (where, for these purposes, " Interest Cover " means, in respect of any Relevant Period, the ratio of Consolidated EBIT for that Relevant Period to Consolidated Net Finance Charges for that Relevant Period);"
 
3.2.4  
by the addition of a new Section 2.02(o) with the following text:
 
"it will not make any Distribution unless:
 
(i)            
in the period commencing on 5 May 2005 and ending on 30 December 2006, the ratio of Consolidated Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Distribution is to be made and calculated on a pro forma basis as if the Distribution had been made) to RAV does not exceed 0.79:1; or
 
(ii)           
in the period commencing on 31 December 2006 and ending on 30 December 2007, the ratio of Consolidated Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Distribution is to be made and calculated on a pro forma basis as if the Distribution had been made) to RAV does not exceed 0.77:1; or
 
(iii)          
on or after 31 December 2007, the ratio of Consolidated Senior Total Net Debt (as at the end of the month immediately preceding the date on which the Distribution is to be made and calculated on a pro forma basis as if the Distribution had been made) to RAV does not exceed 0.75:1;"
 
3.2.5  
by the addition of a new Section 2.02(p) with the following text:
 
"if OFGEM alters its methodology for determining RAV in a manner which results in a change in RAV, it will use its reasonable endeavours to ensure that any adjustments to the definition of RAV that are agreed with Ambac for the purposes of the Bonds shall be made, mutatis mutandis , to the definition of "RAV" in each of the Operating Company Bonds."
 
3.2.6  
by the addition of the following text at the end of Section 2.02(c):
 
"provided further that the Issuer shall only be bound by the covenants set out in Sections 2.02(i) to 2.02(p) (inclusive) and Section 2.02A (a) for so long as any of the Bonds remain outstanding and (b) for so long as no Ambac Event of Default has occurred and is continuing save that (without prejudice to (a)) the Issuer shall continue to be bound by such covenants where any Ambac Event of Default under paragraph (i)(a) of the definition of "Ambac Event of Default" is caused solely by an administrative or technical error which is cured within two business days of such Ambac Event of Default first arising."
 
3.2.7  
by the deletion of Section 2.02A in its entirety and the substitution of the following as Section 2.02A:
 
" Ratios. For the purposes of calculating any Leverage Ratio pursuant to Section 2.02 (i), references to "Measurement Date" in the definition of "Leverage Ratio" shall be deemed to be replaced by references to "Calculation Date" and be construed accordingly. Each calculation of any Leverage Ratio pursuant to Section 2.02 (i) shall be certified by a Director of the Issuer and each such certificate shall be delivered to Ambac on a date falling no later than 60 days after the Calculation Date to which the relevant Leverage Ratio relates. Each calculation of the Interest Cover pursuant to Section 2.02 (m) shall be certified by a Director of the Issuer and each such certificate shall be delivered to Ambac on a date falling no later than 60 days after the last day of the Relevant Period to which the relevant Interest Cover relates."
 
 
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4.    
MISCELLANEOUS
 
4.1  
The terms of this Second Supplemental Agreement may be enforced only by a party hereto and the operation of the Contracts (Rights of Third Parties) Act 1999 is excluded.
 
4.2  
The provisions of Section 7.01 ( Amendments, Etc ), Section 7.02 ( Notices ), Section 7.03 ( Severability ), Section 7.04 ( Governing Law ) and Section 7.05 ( Counterparts ) of the Original Agreement shall apply mutatis mutandis to this Second Supplemental Agreement save that references in such provisions to the " Insurance Agreement " shall, for the purposes of this Clause 4.2, be construed as references to this Second Supplemental Agreement.
 
AS WITNESS the hands of the parties the day and year first above written.
 
 

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SIGNATURES


CE ELECTRIC UK FUNDING COMPANY
 
 
  By:  /s/ Patrick Goodman
  Patrick Goodman
   


AMBAC ASSURANCE UK LIMITED
 
 
  By:  /s/  Thomas Jacquot
  Thomas Jacquot



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