The European Commission, currently investigating whether Microsoft is abusing its dominant position in the market for computer operating systems, is apparently concerned that the appointment of Detlef Eckert might involve unacceptable conflicts of interests.
Eckert, who was working in the development of the EU's internet and information technology strategy and was dealing with broadband and security issues, took a leave of absence to join Microsoft. According to the company, Eckert will be working in software security projects and will not be involved in antitrust cases or legal issues of any form.
A European Commission spokesperson has reportedly said that Eckert did not work in the Microsoft antitrust case and that he could not disclose any relevant information anyway, since he is bound by an EU confidentiality agreement.
The Commission said that Eckert was not dealing with issues related to Microsoft's .Net Passport service, which is also being investigated for compliance with European data protection legislation.
According to the Associated Press, however, the Commission's chief spokesman, Jonathan Faull, admitted that it is now checking how closely Eckert might have been involved in cases directly linked to Microsoft.