[nzlug] 'MS Tax' versus Commerce Commission

[Simon]

I wasn't going to continue with this thread, only I thought of something
that hasn't been mentioned... the most expensive laptops typically come
with the most expensive software. Even if we agree to eat a Microsoft
tax, there doesn't seem to be the means to limit it.

IF I believe the seller, the OS costs little due to purchasing deals...
but what about Office? That seems to be costing me at least $200...

While I can sympathise with the retailer (they get the computer like
that), can't they order one in? If they *must* sell with windows, why
cannot I have Vista Home Basic and *nothing else*?

Anyone any experience with this?
Anyone with a counter-example.