WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Department of Justice issued the following statement today after the District Court certified the Microsoft case for direct appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court:

"We are very pleased with the Court's decision to place the appeal directly in the Supreme Court. This decision affirms the Department's position that a quick and effective remedy is necessary to resolve this significant case.

"As our filings in District Court explained, this is an appropriate case to go directly to the Supreme Court under the Expediting Act because of its importance to the American economy and to all consumers.

"As we also explained, the sooner a meaningful remedy is in place, the better it will be for consumers and the marketplace by providing increased innovation, more choices and better products. Given the District Court's decision to stay the remedy during the appeal process, the direct appeal to the Supreme Court is of particular importance to the national interest."