Senate Internet panel to probe Microsoft's power

Article Abstract:

US Senate Judiciary Committee Chmn Orrin Hatch, R-UT, criticized Microsoft for what he described as an attempt to dominate the Internet. Hatch brings bipartisan support to the Justice Department's pending antitrust suit against Microsoft. The Senate Judiciary Committee supervises the Justice Department, and Hatch will outline some of his concerns Nov 4, 1997 at a Senate hearing on the Internet and electronic commerce. Hatch says the hearing will examine current Congressional antitrust laws pertaining to Internet software rather than an attack on Microsoft. The government, led by new antitrust chief Joel Klein, is charging Microsoft with violating a 1995 antitrust settlement. Insiders say the Justice Department is widening its investigation into Microsoft's exclusive relationship with Internet content providers. The Senate Judiciary Committee also is reviewing Microsoft's business practices, which include exclusive licensing deals with Web content providers.

Cases, Electronic commerce, E-commerce, Government Regulation

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Sen. Hatch issues warning Microsoft may be building 'proprietary Internet.' (Senate Judiciary Committee Chmn Orrin Hatch) (Government Activity)

Article Abstract:

Microsoft may be attempting to construct a 'proprietary Internet,' according to Senate Judiciary Committee Chmn Orrin Hatch. Such a network could weaken competition and innovation, as well as resulting in government regulation. Hatch's call for tough scrutiny, as a preferred alternative to regulation, signals a government probe of Microsoft beyond traditional software markets. The probe would examine whether the software giant and its Internet partners attempt to control on-line entertainment and commerce. Some Microsoft media partners said they have received civil investigative demands this week from the government requesting documentation of contracts with Microsoft for use of Microsoft's Internet Explorer. Insiders said the government wants to examine promotional incentives and contract exclusivity levels.

Management, Telecommunications regulations, Government communications regulation, Hatch, Orrin G.

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