Hayward testimony: BP contrite, but not ready to take all blame

“The truth ... is that this is a complex accident, caused by an unprecedented combination of failures,” said Hayward. “A number of companies are involved, including BP, and it is simply too early to understand the cause.”

Waxman, however, cited internal e-mails obtained by his committee that appeared to show a lack of interest at BP in alleged problems such as cementing difficulties with the well pipes.

“Who cares? It’s done. End of story. We’ll probably be fined,” said one such internal BP memo, as cited by Waxman.

The top Republican on the committee, Rep. Joe Barton of Texas, said he was with Waxman and the chairman of the subcommittee holding the hearing, Rep. Bart Stupak (D) of Michigan, regarding to their desire to hold BP accountable for its actions.

But he took the opportunity of the hearing’s opening to blast the White House for its role in pushing BP to set up a $20 billion contingency fund to pay for cleanup and damages to victims of the spill.

“I’m ashamed that a private corporation can be subjected to what I characterize as a shakedown,” said Representative Barton.

Rep. Edward Markey (D) of Massachusetts disagreed with his colleague, saying, “this is not a shakedown. This is ensuring ... the company is held accountable.”

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• Gulf oil spill: Will Obama regret his '90 percent' promise?

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