In 2007, the merger of SUEK and energy enterprises of Gazprom was announced. It was assumed that during the first half of 2007, these companies will create a joint venture in which they will bring electricity and coal assets. It was expected that Gazprom would receive 50% plus one share in the new enterprise, and SUEK - 50% minus one share. It was most likely that the Siberian Coal Energy Company would give away all major energy and coal assets (with the exception of the networks) as a contribution to the joint venture, while the gas concern would give a stake in regional energy companies These plans alarmed a number of senior officials. The head of RAO "UES of Russia" Anatoly Chubais called them "a big mistake of the state", and the head of the Federal Antimonopoly Service, Igor Artemyev, said that his department would not approve this deal. On June 9, 2008, a refusal to consolidate assets was announced.