MAKER OF EXPENSIVE PRINTER INK HP has been forced to write off a lot of money thanks to a failed EDS deal with the UK's Sky broadcasting.

In a financial statement released at the end of last week the firm confessed to a big loss, including a payment to BSkyB of £70 million thanks to a court ruling against it, well EDS.

The firm said that although the judge had ruled in favour in EDS in some areas, it felt that it wasn't all squeeky clean.

HP explained, "At a court hearing held on March 1, 2010, the court ordered EDS to make an interim payment to BSkyB of £70 million, or approximately $112 million, which is in addition to an interim payment of £200 million, or approximately $320 million, that HP made voluntarily to BSkyB in February 2010. Following that March 1 hearing, HP determined that it was appropriate to increase the contingency reserve. HP will continue to evaluate the reserve pending final resolution of the litigation."

If any lawyers want to jump in here and explain that, they are more than welcome.

Easier to comprehend is what HP will set its lawyers to next. "HP is seeking permission to appeal the ruling", the firm added. µ