Socialists call for committee to probe Microsoft corruption case
The Socialist Party (MSzP) has proposed setting up a parliamentary committee to investigate the recent corruption case involving the local unit of tech giant Microsoft and the sale of software licenses to Hungarian government agencies, news site 444.hu reports.
Last month, Microsoft Hungary agreed to pay a criminal penalty of more than USD 8.7 million to resolve a U.S. government investigation into violations of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) arising out of a bid rigging and bribery scheme in connection with the sale of Microsoft software licenses to Hungarian government agencies.
The announcement of the Socialistsʼ call for a new committee investigation was made by Tamás Harangozó, MSZPʼs deputy parliamentary group leader.
Harangozó noted that the U.S. investigation revealed Microsoft Hungary sold licenses and service contracts at huge discounts to intermediary firms, who then sold these on to government institutions such as the National Tax and Customs Administration (NAV) and National Police Headquarters, but without passing on the savings to these customers.
The investigation also shed light on e-mails between government members and Microsoft Hungaryʼs management discussing details of the deals, Harangozó claimed.
Richter Shareholders Approve HUF 423/Share Dividend
Liz & Chain Rooftop Bar Debuts Sustainable Cocktails
SUPPORT THE BUDAPEST BUSINESS JOURNAL
Producing journalism that is worthy of the name is a costly business. For 27 years, the publishers, editors and reporters of the Budapest Business Journal have striven to bring you business news that works, information that you can trust, that is factual, accurate and presented without fear or favor.
Newspaper organizations across the globe have struggled to find a business model that allows them to continue to excel, without compromising their ability to perform. Most recently, some have experimented with the idea of involving their most important stakeholders, their readers.
We would like to offer that same opportunity to our readers. We would like to invite you to help us deliver the quality business journalism you require. Hit our Support the BBJ button and you can choose the how much and how often you send us your contributions.
