rms@wheaties.ai.mit.edu (Richard Stallman) (05/26/89)
From Computer Weekly, London, 18 May 1989.
Allegations that PC manufacturer Apple is trying to prevent users
discovering details of ``grey import'' discounted prices have prompted
an investigation by the Office of Fair Trading.
The enquiry will centre on complaints that Apple is blacklisting
magazines which carry advertisements detailing unauthorised prices.
Apple machines cost up to 25% less in the US than in the UK, according
to grey importers, who unofficially buy in machines from abroad and
undercut Apple's UK prices.
According to documents seen by {\it Computer Weekly}, Apple dealers
have attempted to prevent publication of advertisements detailing
unofficial prices.
A letter circulated to London Apple Dealers Group encourages them not
to place advertisements in any magazine which carries grey import
advertising.
One grey importer, Camelot Computing, is considering taking legal
advice. A spokesman says several magazines have refused to accept take
its advertising.
``Publishers are concerned that Apple will refuse to advertise with
them if they accept adverts from grey importers.''