BP to get record US criminal fine over Deepwater disaster

[Gerald]

BP is set to receive a record fine of between $3bn and $5bn (£1.9bn-£3.2bn) to settle criminal charges related to the 2010 Deepwater Horizon disaster, the BBC has learnt.

It will be the biggest criminal penalty in US history, BBC business editor Robert Peston says.

The settlement with the Department of Justice involves BP pleading guilty to criminal charges.

It is thought that up to four BP staff may be arrested, Robert Peston says.Details of the settlement are expected to be confirmed by the Washington-based Department of Justice later.

Earlier, BP said it was in "advanced discussions" with US agencies about settling criminal and other claims.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-20336898


Note: 15 November 2012 Last updated at 14:45 GMT