A Justice Department official says no settlement talks are taking place between the Obama administration and BP over fines for BP’s massive Gulf of Mexico oil spill.

The Justice Department official spoke on condition of anonymity because criminal and civil investigations of BP are continuing.

The Justice official made the comment Tuesday after Louisiana Republican Rep. Steve Scalise said the two sides are talking in an effort to avoid a costly legal fight.

Scalise told The Associated Press that members of his staff got information about discussions while working on oil spill-related legislation he is proposing.