Hayward dodging all questions
Liveblog by Khan
BP CEO Hayward has a clear strategy to the tough questions that he’s receiving from committee members.
In
response to questions from Rep. Stupak concerning whether BP "cut
corners", Hayward said it was too "early to tell", citing 7 areas of
study in ongoing investigations.
When citing BP’s record under
Hayward, with 26 deaths, over 100 injuries, spills in Alaska & the
Gulf, Stupak asked Hayward point blank whether there should be a ban on
drilling for oil companies who have a proven record of unsafe practices.
We
are "focused on improving safety", replied Hayward. BP has made
"systematic changes" over the past three years with regards to best
safety practices.
In response to Rep. Burgess’s questions
concerning specific questions about the construction of the Macondo
well, Hayward said he was "not prepared to speculate" before the
ongoing investigations were completed.
Hayward’s strategy is clear–decline to answer any specific
questions regarding the Macondo well, stating that he is "not
prepared to speculate" pending ongoing investigations or that he "doesn’t know". And with questions
regarding his own leadership concerning the safety culture at BP, state that BP is and
has been making "systematic changes" focused on improving safety.
Congressmen
are furious with his answers. Rep. Waxman is scolding Hayward for
"stonewalling" the committee and for not answering questions with any
specificity.