Both operate in industries where they once held an effective monopoly and have now been forced to face increased competition and change.

Those involved in talks believe it was because the military wanted no competition in an area where it has an effective monopoly.

Customers have complained of exorbitant prices and unfair practices by heating oil firms that have an effective monopoly in some of the country's more remote regions.

With an effective monopoly and with prices set to increase, water companies have potential to gain value effectively from the crisis.

There's also the danger of companies securing an effective monopoly over particular geographic territories.