PRESS DIGEST-British Business - February 12

Feb 12 (Reuters) - The following are the top stories on the business pages of British newspapers. Reuters has not verified these stories and does not vouch for their accuracy.

The Times

- Octopus Energy ORIT.L has joined a consortium, led by Covalis Capital and Suez, to bid for Thames Water, aiming to manage customer relations and billing while addressing the company's 20 billion pound ($24.90 billion) debt.

- Nick Wilkinson, CEO of Dunelm DNLM.L, will step down from his role after spending seven years in charge of the homewares business.

The Guardian

- Vitality is the first UK health insurer to offer members discounted anti-obesity drugs, including Wegovy and Mounjaro, based on their BMI and health conditions.

- The US and the UK refused to sign a declaration on "inclusive and sustainable" AI at the Paris summit, citing concerns over global governance and national security.

The Telegraph

- The UK faces potential tariffs of 24 billion pounds ($29.88 billion) from the U.S. as President Donald Trump plans to impose "reciprocal" tariffs based on VAT policies, which he claims give other countries an unfair trade advantage.

- Deloitte UK has reaffirmed its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) goals, diverging from its U.S. counterpart, which is ending its DEI programs in response to the changing political climate.

Sky News

- Will Shu, the founding CEO of Deliveroo ROO.L, is considering stepping down as soon as this year, with Carlo Mocci, the chief business officer, being a leading internal candidate for his replacement.

- Heathrow Airport is set to announce a multibillion-dollar investment to expand capacity and improve infrastructure, while preparing a proposal for a third runway to be submitted by summer.

($1 = 0.8033 pounds)