BP - US in no position to 'throw stones

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US in no position to 'throw stones'

The response of the American public and its political leaders to the oil spill in the Gulf perfectly illustrates why 'people in glass houses should not throw stones'. BP and its corporate associates certainly deserve severe censure for their failure to provide adequate safeguards for their hazardous operations, and their behaviour brings to mind the recent reckless folly of the banks. However, the resulting damage is hardly a 'drop in the ocean' compared to the impact of America's contribution to global atmospheric pollution resulting from the combustion of fossil fuels.

At least BP has offered fulsome apologies, is compensating those affected, and is making strenuous efforts to prevent further damage. Has the US accepted responsibility for the impacts of its energy profligacy on climate change? Has it committed itself to providing full restitution for the now well documented misery which global warming is already inflicting on the world's poor? Is it making determined efforts to decarbonise its economy and life-style? In each case, we think not. It really is in no position to 'throw stones'.
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Dr David Golding CBE