Opponents of Microsoft yesterday urged European antitrust regulators to force a break-up of the US software group, to stop what they see as anti-competitive practices.

The Computer & Communications Industry Association, a coalition of more than 30 Microsoft rivals, alleged it broke competition law in markets ranging from software to mobile phones and the internet. "Microsoft's monopolies are extraordinarily durable and growing," said Mr Ed Black, head of the CCIA.

Microsoft rejected the arguments. Mr Jim Desler, a company spokesman, said: "These appear to be old arguments rehashed by a group that seems intent on pushing complaints and litigation rather than working constructively with the rest of the industry. - (Financial Times Service)