YOUR front page on Saturday continues Microsoft's successful policy of spreading FUD (fear, uncertainty, doubt). It made no mention of Microsoft's conviction for exploiting their monopolistic position or the very slow investigation by the European Community which should result in another guilty verdict.

The warning should go to Microsoft that they should stop their intimidation immediately. Instead of frightening hard-pressed IT teachers, Microsoft should donate their software to educational institutions as a way of securing their position in the marketplace of the future.

There are alternatives to many of Microsoft's products. There is now a family of Linux products that is effectively free of charge. The York education officers should stand up to the bully and give a robust answer to Microsoft on behalf of all educational organisations and threaten to abandon their products.

Charles Jones,

Main Avenue, Heworth, York.