[comp.os.minix] Minix availability in the UK

rde@eagle.UUCP (04/03/87)

Can anyone (perhaps ast) clear up the confusion over whether Minix is
available (on diskettes) in the UK? I am having a lot of trouble..

First, I asked the local bookstore, since they were having a visit from
the Prentice-Hall rep. He/she said that P/H were just passing all orders
to the U.S., and that the disk kit cost was 98 pounds (yes, NINETY-EIGHT
POUNDS).

Next, I called Prentice-Hall in New York (figuring I might as well order
direct). They refused to deal with me on the grounds that P/H had a local
branch in the UK.

Two questions. First, how ON EARTH do they justify such a price hike?
At present, 79 dollars converts (at a very conservative estimate) to
about 53 pounds. Even allowing for shipping, 98 pounds seems extortionate
(but then, P/H seem quite good at that; look at the price of K&R).

Second, how can I get these disks? Since private copying is allowed,
would some kind soul (UK or US) make copies for me? I'd be grateful,
and pay any reasonable copying and postage charges. It would be faster
than dealing with P/H.

BTW, the application card in the back of the book just says to call New York.
No mention of what to do elsewhere. Great!