April 03, 2000 WorldCom (NASDAQ: WCOM), The following statement
should be attributed to Michael H. Salsbury, MCI WorldCom general
counsel:
"SBC's action indicates that it has recognized the
shortcomings in its original application to provide long distance
service in Texas. However, starting a new 90-day review period without
first fixing these problems does not represent progress.
The FCC set a clear standard for Bell companies to satisfy section
271 in its recent approval of Bell Atlantic's New York application.
SBC must address a number of problems, including its ability to process
competitors' local phone and advanced service orders promptly and
accurately, before it can meet that standard.
SBC should fix these problems before beginning a new review period.
MCI WorldCom stands ready to work with SBC on its systems to ensure
that Texas consumers will receive excellent service and enjoy the full
benefits of competition."
