Hi Vette

Apologies if I gave the impression that you had not tried to answer my question. I absolutely appreciate you taking the time to explain but I was a bit too dense to realise what you were saying. Having had a fair bit of experience in this area in other sectors, I did not believe that using the feasibility as a threat to Teck would be a good reason. You have more knowledge in the mining sector and felt that it was. I have reread your responses carefully and will take what you say on board. I think, however, that your second post listed is actually a response to someone else as it mentions the blackout which we never discussed.

As regards Teck being the only suitor. I think we have to agree to differ here even taking into account POST Schaft Creek and having Teck as the preferred option ( spincos, etc ). I have tried to come up with scenarios where having Teck as the sole suitor is the best option. I just can't do it. In any other sector, having multiple bidders even with a preferred bidder is better than having one bidder. Again, having more experience in this sector you may have more insight here. Multiple bidders will keep Teck on their toes and increase the benefits for CUU and more importantly takes away any question of impropiety. It certainly does not mean that Teck is not the best option and I did not mean that.

Again, thanks for taking the time to explain

regards

bbay