UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON. D.C. 20549

 

THE CHAIR

October 13. 2016

The Honorable Lamar Smith

Chairman

Committee on Science. Space. and Technology
US. House of Representatives

2321 Raybum House Office Building
Washington. DC. 20515

Dear Chairman Smith:

Thank you for your September 29. 2016 letter regarding media reports ofa purported
investigation ofExxon Mobil Corporation.

While I am aware ofthe press accounts referenced in your letter. the Securities and
Exchange Commission conducts investigations on a confidential basis. We do so in order to
protect the integrity ofour investigations. safeguard the privacy of witnesses. and avoid
damaging the reputations of parties who may not be charged. For these reasons. the Commission
generally does not acknowledge the existence or non?existence of an investigation unless and
until charges are filed. Accordingly. I cannot comment Speci?cally on the matter raised in your
letter.

Please do not hesitate to contact me at (202) 551?2100. or have a member of your staff
contact Keith Cassidy. Director ofthe Oflice of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs. at
(202) 551-2010. for further assistance.

Sincerely.

15wa

Mary .10 White
Chair

cc: The Honorable Eddie Bernice Johnson. Ranking Member. Committee on Science. Space. and
Technology