""A bill will be debated next week that would prevent BP from getting any new offshore licenses, effectively ruining their plans for the Gulf and the Arctic.""

As I've said before, I don't expect American oil companies will be too upset at the removal of a major competitor. In fact I can name two companies who will be very relieved. The two that should be sharing the cost with BP, but have been given a "Get out of jail free" card by the US.

The time will come when there is another spill in the gulf, and BP's expertise in offshore drilling will be needed. I wonder whether they will feel inclined to assist when that happens.

Don T.