Panel backs EU Microsoft ruling

[MaineDem]

A EU competition panel has unanimously backed a draft plan of action which could see US software giant Microsoft hit with fines and penalties.

The EU advisory panel of national antitrust experts endorsed a decision drawn up by the European Commission.

Reports say Microsoft will be forced to share proprietary details with rivals and provide a second, stripped-down version of its Windows system.

The decision paves the way for a final announcement later in March.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/3512250.stm