HAYWARD DOES ADMIT THAT NO ONE AT BP HAS BEEN FIRED OVER THE INCIDENT

Washington, Jun 17, 2010 -

Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-FL) today participated in the House Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations’ hearing with Tony Hayward, the CEO of BP.  Stearns questioned Hayward about the vague answers given throughout the hearing, “You just continue to say that I just can’t answer that question,” said Stearns.

Stearns then asked if BP engaged in reckless behavior causing this oil blow out, “Would it be appropriate to say that its because of BP’s reckless behavior that this occurred, yes or no?”  Hayward eventually responded, “There is no evidence of reckless behavior.”

Stearns then pointed out that at a hearing two days previously, the top executives from BP’s major competitors – Exxon Mobil, Chevron, ConocoPhillips, and Shell --- agreed that BP was reckless in proceeding after finding inconsistent well pressure test readings.  They also agreed with Stearns that BP failed to follow industry safety standards.  Stearns also cited Halliburton’s warning that the well could have a severe gas flow problem if these safety recommendations were not followed, which BP rejected, and the exchange of BP emails discussing these recommendations that further underscored their reckless behavior.

Stearns also asked, “Has anyone in BP been fired because of this incident, anybody?”  “No, so far,” responded Hayward,  “Our investigation is ongoing.”  Stearns expressed astonishment that no one has been held accountable at BP for the loss of life or the massive economic and environmental damage.