NEWS Federal Communications Commission 445 12th Street, S.W. Washington, D. C. 20554 This is an unofficial announcement of Commission action. Release of the full text of a Commission order constitutes official action. See MCI v. FCC. 515 F 2d 385 (D.C. Circ 1974). News Media Information 202 / 418-0500 Internet: http://www.fcc.gov TTY: 1-888-835-5322 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE NEWS MEDIA CONTACT December 29, 2006 Brigid Calamis 202-418-2200 STATEMENT OF COMMISSIONER ROBERT M. McDOWELL REGARDING AT&T-BELLSOUTH MERGER AGREEMENT "I am delighted that my colleagues and the merging companies were able to come to terms so quickly after last week's announcement. The shareholders, employees and customers of the new combined company all stand to benefit from the Commission's thoughtful and prompt action. Congratulations to all." # # #