Mr. Robert Malone Dear Mr. Malone: As you know, during my tenure in the 1980's and early 1990's as chairman of this Committee, members and staff investigated a number of serious allegations related to the Trans Alaskan Pipeline. Those investigations and followup hearings found a number of serious shortcomings. Many corrective actions were taken by the owner companies (particularly under your leadership) as well as by state and federal regulators. Recently, new allegations -- this time relating to BP’s Prudhoe Bay operations -- have been reported to me, and have also been disclosed by certain publications such as the Wall Street Journal. I appreciate your responsiveness in working closely with Committee staff to explain these matters. I have now received a letter setting forth several specific questions and concerns related to BP’s North Slope operations. I ask you to review and respond to this enclosed letter. We have not independently verified either the accuracy or the significance of these claims. Moreover, it is also difficult to independently assess whether existing regulatory agencies -- as alluded to in these allegations -- have the resources, the capability, or the will to ensure that all North Slope systems are operating safely, and are being adequately maintained. I look forward to hearing from you on these matters. If you have any questions, you know you can contact me directly, or continue working with Christopher Knauer, Minority Professional Staff Member, at 202-226-3400. Sincerely,
Enclosure cc: The Honorable W. J. "Billy" Tauzin, Chairman The Honorable Gale A. Norton, Secretary
| |
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
