The following statement is from Jim Barrett, President and CEO of the Michigan Chamber of Commerce commenting on today's announcement that U.S. Steel Corporation will purchase National Steel Corporation, including its plants in Metro Detroit.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20000320/DEM039 )

"The steel industry has a long and proud history in Michigan, specifically in the downriver Detroit area. The U.S. Steel transaction will save thousands of good jobs and preserves an industry that has been pivotal to so many other important Michigan industries, including our automakers and suppliers."

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20000320/DEM039

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SOURCE: Michigan Chamber of Commerce

CONTACT: Jim Barrett of Michigan Chamber of Commerce, +1-517-371-2100

Web site: http://www.michamber.com/