MCI today announced it has reached agreement with Qwest Communications International Inc. to support a framework for open negotiations to set the rates for leasing Qwest’s local phone network. The arrangement calls for former Wisconsin Public Service Commission Chair Cheryl Parrino to mediate the negotiations.
The biggest local phone companies are seeking to replace government-mandated wholesale rates with commercial agreements after a federal appeals court rejected FCC rules in March. FCC commissioners have asked AT&T Corp., MCI and other phone companies to negotiate leasing agreements with Qwest and the other regional Bells.
“We call on BellSouth, Verizon and SBC to come to the negotiating table and enter into open, transparent and mediated talks,” MCI General Counsel Stasia Kelly said in a statement. “It is in the interest of all companies and consumers to put our positions at the table, in full view of fair and impartial mediators and to attempt to reach agreement as quickly as we can.”
