Two women who lost their husbands in the Deepwater Horizon rig explosion told members of Congress to blame BP but lift the ban on offshore drilling.

Courtney Kemp, who lost her husband Wyatt in the accident, said: "I am asking you to please consider harsh punishments on companies who choose to ignore safety standards before other families are destroyed."

Despite the personal cost, their testimony shows strong support for offshire drilling which is a major economic driver in the Gulf Coast region.

Meanwhile, President Obama met with Cabinet officals at the White House. He said the economic impact of the spill, which also threatens the Gulf Coast's fishing industry, will be substantial.

A live video feed still shows black crude billowing into the sea.

BP and government officials have said a definitive solution will not come until August when a relief well is drilled.