Mediator aims to settle Microsoft/US Govt dispute

A professional mediator has been appointed in a bid to settle a dispute between Microsoft and the US Government.

The row relates to claims that Microsoft operates a harmful monopoly.

Eric Green, a professor at Boston University's law school, will work with both sides in a bid to reach an agreement.

Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly says lawyers for the government and Microsoft are working hard to settle the case.

She says:"Based upon the parties' representations, the Court is satisfied, at this point, that the parties have been diligent in negotiations."

The judge did not say if any progress has been made, and again reminded lawyers that she would like to see the case settled.

Judge Kollar-Kotelly has given the opposing lawyers until November 2 to negotiate, before beginning a trial process to decide how Microsoft should be punished for hurting competition through its business practices.

Legal experts have said they doubt a settlement will be reached.

The previous judge handling the case forced Microsoft and the government into mediated settlement talks, but these ended in failure.