The European Commission, currently investigating whether
Microsoft is abusing its dominant position in the market for
computer operating systems, is apparently concerned that the
appointment of Detlef Eckert might involve unacceptable conflicts
of interests.
Eckert, who was working in the development of the EU's internet
and information technology strategy and was dealing with broadband
and security issues, took a leave of absence to join Microsoft.
According to the company, Eckert will be working in software
security projects and will not be involved in antitrust cases or
legal issues of any form.
A European Commission spokesperson has reportedly said that
Eckert did not work in the Microsoft antitrust case and that he
could not disclose any relevant information anyway, since he is
bound by an EU confidentiality agreement.
The Commission said that Eckert was not dealing with issues
related to Microsoft's .Net Passport service, which is also being
investigated for compliance with European data protection
legislation.
According to the Associated Press, however, the Commission's
chief spokesman, Jonathan Faull, admitted that it is now checking
how closely Eckert might have been involved in cases directly
linked to Microsoft.
