Updated 07/27/2009 09:26 PM
Lawyers Question Bloomberg In Discrimination Suit
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Lawyers in the federal sexual harassment suit filed against Bloomberg LP questioned Mayor Michael Bloomberg Monday about his knowledge of the company since he gave up an active role in its management.
More than 80 woman are alleging Bloomberg LP demoted or reduced pay for pregnant women during and after their maternity leave.
Bloomberg has not been named as a defendant in the case, but the suit suggests the mayor is responsible for the creation of the top-down culture of discrimination at the financial information company.
An attorney for two the plaintiffs said the mayor's answers during the 3.5 hours of questioning were very short, and he made it seem as though he had better things to do than be at the deposition.
"The questioning dug deeper into Mr. Bloomberg's knowledge of and relationship with the company over the past several years," said attorney Richard Roth. "While I'm unable to discuss the details of his testimony, I can tell you that unlike the prior session, the mayor was dismissive and disinterested."
Attorneys for Bloomberg released a statement defending the mayor's testimony, saying, "Mr. Bloomberg answered every question that was asked, and he did so directly and appropriately."
This is the second time he has been deposed in a sexual harassment case against his company. He was last questioned in May.
The company has disputed these claims, saying that they have no merit.
Bloomberg is currently campaigning for a third term as mayor.