In fact, that is what they still do. As someone who deals with ABS regularly, it is as weird of a conflict of interest as one would think. ABS, as far as I've seen, is comprised of honest folks who take their jobs seriously (i.e. they don't take it easy on shipbuilders or owners in hopes of retaining business). However, it's an odd dynamic. It's kind of like being sued and having to pay not only your defense lawyer, but also the prosecution's lawyer.
In fact, that is what they still do. As someone who deals with ABS regularly, it is as weird of a conflict of interest as one would think. ABS, as far as I've seen, is comprised of honest folks who take their jobs seriously (i.e. they don't take it easy on shipbuilders or owners in hopes of retaining business). However, it's an odd dynamic. It's kind of like being sued and having to pay not only your defense lawyer, but also the prosecution's lawyer.