Posted: 16th Dec, 2006 By: MarkJ
NetServices (NS) has issued its response to some of Biscit's recent press releases and attempts to clarify what has happened so far:
NetServices has read the various statements released by Hugh Paterson, CEO of Biscit, the Biscit website, its bulletin Board, ZDnet and others including ISP Review and the Register.
NetServices is concerned that the headlines, certain content, and in particular comments attributed to Mr Paterson may be misleading.
Therefore NetServices today wish to clarify the following information:
- On 12 December NetServices published an update to affected V21 users on the progress since termination of the Biscit CSP (V21) contract. This confirmed that BT had processed almost all the line ceases requested enabling users to move to any ISP of their choice.
- Biscit CSP was successful in seeking an injunction to effect the transfer of certain authentication realms from NetServices network to Biscits group network.
- The scope of the injunction was limited to the use of the realms. It did not as suggested by Biscit, determine the burst bandwidth invoice. Furthermore the Court's decision did not adjudicate on the monies owed by Biscit CSP to NetServices, although for the purposes of this application Biscit CSP's lawyer did concede that "there was a substantial chance that ... the termination [by NetServices] was justified ......"[under the contractual terms].
- The technology Biscit claims did not exist prior to July but is required to validate the burst bandwidth invoice was and is contained within its own radius servers.
- Today Biscit CSP issued £3.7million of credit notes to NetServices plc.
NetServices continues to seek payment of the significant outstanding debts which triggered this dispute. Until then NetServices only intends to issue further press statements where necessary in response to selective or misleading statements by or on behalf of Biscit.
Ofcom is known to be taking a close look at some of NetServices actions and weve learnt that other ISPs have concerns too; Both parties (BSC/NS) will have to be wary of the image they present.
Its still difficult to know which side of the current dispute is most at fault, although the outcome of Biscits court case will be closely observed by more than just the media.