Following what was the oil industry’s third significant spill at Prudhoe Bay in one month and another leak at Prince William Sound, governor Sean Parnell called executives at both BP Exploration and Alyeska Pipeline Service Company to express his deep concern.

He told them: “Frankly, when I saw so many spills in such a short time I was indignant.

“The spills harm both Alaska’s environment and Alaska’s reputation for responsible resource development, I let the companies know this was not acceptable.”

The governor also said he has asked the attorney general and commissioners of environmental conservation and natural resources to review the spills, and to make recommendations early this year.

A spokesman for the Alyeska Pipeline Service Company said: “We spend over $60m annually on oil spill prevention and response in Prince William Sound, and dedicated over 300 personnel to this effort, mostly through our Ship Escort/Response Vessel System (SERVS).

“Created in July 1989, SERVS is considered one of the best oil spill prevention and response forces in the world.”

A spokesman for BP added: “We are committed to the safety and development of our people and the communities and societies in which we operate.

“We aim for no accidents, no harm to people and no damage to the environment.”

Luke Walsh

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