...Our assessment of KeySpan Gas East Corp. (KEDLI) as a core subsidiary of National Grid PLC (National Grid) underpins the rating. Because KEDLI is a core subsidiary of National Grid, our issuer credit rating on KEDLI benefits from a one-notch uplift, bringing it in line with our group credit profile on National Grid. We assess KEDLI's business risk profile as excellent, albeit at a lower standing within the business risk profile category. Although KEDLI owns and operates a lower-risk gas distribution system in a generally constructive regulatory framework, we view it as somewhat less effective at managing the political and regulatory risks in New York compared with its peers in the state, as largely informed by the uncertainties presented by the political focus relating to National Grid's management of gas supply issues for KEDLI's service territory. Overall, we use a negative comparative rating analysis modifier to reflect our view that the company's business risk profile is at the lower...