Boeing tanker deal put on hold as Pentagon waits for probe results

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http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/businesstechnology/2001806118_boeingtankers030.html

WASHINGTON — A senior Pentagon official has ordered the Air Force to delay signing a contract for up to 100 Boeing-made tankers until independent investigators look into alleged improper conduct surrounding the deal.

Deputy Defense Secretary Paul Wolfowitz wrote that he is "ordering a pause" on the signing of any contracts while the Pentagon investigation is completed. He also promised that congressional committees will have "ample time" to review any eventual contracts between Boeing and the Air Force.
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The delay comes on the heels of Boeing Chairman Phil Condit's resignation Monday. Incoming CEO Harry Stonecipher said his first priority was restoring the faith of Boeing's top customer, the U.S. government.Last week, Boeing fired Chief Financial Officer Mike Sears for speaking with an Air Force employee about a job before she had recused herself from handling Boeing contracts, including the tanker negotiations. The employee, Darleen Druyun, who had become a Boeing vice president, also was fired.

The company said both tried to cover up the breach of company policy, which may also have violated the federal Procurement Integrity Act. Through a law firm last week, Sears denied any misconduct.
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Looks like Wolfie's got more to worry about than spinning the latest news from Iraq

He and his self- dealing cronies may be headed for a career in the license plate industry.