BP's Dudley: Time to scaleback cleanup

BILOXI, Mississippi (WALA) - Bob Dudley, who lived in Mississippi early in his life, came to Biloxi Friday to reassure the coast. But he also said part of BP's operation is being cut back.

"I think actions speak louder than words and that's what we're going to keep doing and commit to," Incoming BP CEO, Bob Dudley said.

But Dudley also said it's time to scale back oil clean up.

"It's not too soon for the scale back. We haven't permanently finally killed the well. I don't think we'll see anymore oil going into the beaches. You'll see the evidence of the pull back because we have boom across the shores from Florida to Louisiana. That only lasts for a certain number of tide cycles so you'll definitely see that pulling back. Where there's no oil on the beaches you probably don't need people walking up and down with hazmat suits," Dudley added.

Local Mayors listened carefully.

"The main thing was the continued commitment for the protection of our lives and property. Then the long term commitment by BP in terms of the restoration and lives and livelihood of our citizens," Waveland Mayor, Tommy Longo said.

Dudley also announced that Former FEMA Chief James Lee Witt will help with coast recovery.

"We'll be working with BP, the local officials and state governments in putting teams in each of the areas with BP to be able to focus on what they feel is important for the long term recovery efforts and long term recovery planning," Witt said.

A process with an uncertain future.

Dudley succeeds Tony Hayward, who made several public relations gaffes. Dudley takes over as CEO in October.