Markey: BP Chief Officially Refuses to Testify Before Congress

As Bob Dudley Blames Media, Everyone Else for Reaction to Spill, New BP CEO Avoids Talking to Congress, American People

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Chairman Ed Markey, 202-225-4012

WASHINGTON (October 25, 2010) - In a speech today in London, BP's new Chief Executive Officer, Bob Dudley, blamed the media, industry rivals and "a fair number of observers" for the reaction to his company's in excess of four million barrel oil spill - the worst environmental disaster in U.S. history. Meanwhile, Dudley officially refused to testify before Congress in Washington, sending a letter late Friday to Representative Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) to decline an appearance at a congressional hearing to discuss the spill. Dudley also claimed in the speech that the company's relationship with American officials had improved.

"The American people were told that as CEO, Bob Dudley would change BP's attitudes and practices," said Representative Markey, who had requested that Mr. Dudley appear before his Energy and Environment Subcommittee in the House Energy and Business Committee. "Yet BP is continuing to point the finger at everyone but themselves. Since this disaster began, BP has stood for 'Blame Passed.'

Since the last appearance by BP leadership before Congress on June 17th, BP has released findings from their own internal investigation into the Deepwater Horizon disaster, announced an overhaul of their safety practices, and installed a new CEO.

"The American people deserve answers from BP, but when it comes to appearing before Congress, one thing BP certainly does not stand for is 'Being Present,'" said Representative Markey. "If BP is truly committed to repairing their image and standing with the American people and government officials, Mr. Dudley can start by appearing before Congress."

Dudley's letter of refusal can be found HERE

Representative Markey's letters to Dudley can be found HERE

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