Unix beardies ... What a Crock!
As for Fast tracking by MS, this shouldn't be allowed. 

How tiresome to see once again, the company with the most expensive lawyers gets to push it's standards rather than being selected for the best product. 

All about the $$$ once again.

You can't ignore it Albert Mun, when the BSI approves it all government departments will start using it, which means that you have to also if you deal with the government, they are with many and have some push.
Also 10 people walking out of a shop doesn't impact when 50000 don't, and that's the reality of it I fear.

Yet another example of the ruling elite in Britain acting corruptly. The answer? Simply ignore the kite whallahs by ignoring OOXML until it becomes non-proprietary (if ever).

It's so much easier is it to download Open Office (http://openoffice.org/) for free than to pay the M$ tax.

I was in Curry's a couple of weeks ago wanting to buy a laptop. I asked if it was possible to buy one without Vista. I was told in stern terms by the sales assistant that it was not. I replied in stern terms that I would be making my purchase elsewhere and promptly bought a non-M$ machine online.

We can Vote with our feet and our wallets :-)

Oh, my! I didn't realize that BSI = government directive. That's downright insidious.

M$ must be greasing someone's palm.


Is that true?

It seems unlikely - why would they vote to approve a standard they'd never seen?