[Wylug-discuss] BSI to vote yes to OOXML standard

[Phil Driscoll]

According to 
http://www.channelregister.co.uk/2008/03/26/bsi_vote_yes_ooxml/
the BSI are likely to approve Microsoft's OOXML format in the upcoming vote at 
ISO. Mike Banahan added the comment below to the Register article. I've just 
fired off my email to BSI. I hope a goodly number of you will be minded to do 
likewise.
-------------------------
Gobsmacked 
By Mike Banahan
Posted Wednesday 26th March 2008 23:28 GMT 
I can't believe this is true. Although my period as a member of IST/41 (the 
BSI panel that is reviewing the fast-track document) was short, there was an 
air of intellectual honesty that gave me some modest pride being a part of 
it.
I really find it incomprehensible that the BSI panel might have changed its 
recommendation. The draft standard is truly, truly, appalling.
I will be fascinated to see if the rumor of a 5-1 change of mind is really 
true. If so, there will be a lot of explaining to do.
And I'd point out to anyone reading this that the panel is only advisory. If 
you feel that they have made a mistake, give the BSI a call on +44 (0)20 8996 
9001 or email them at cservices at bsi-global.com
The ICT/-/1 (that's really its name) committee that actually decides the UK 
vote is only advised by IST/41, it doesn't *have* to abide by what they say. 
The BSI is supposed to work on consensus. If enough people call or contact it 
to tell it that it's made a mistake, it is supposed to do something about it.
If you care, get off your backside and tell them. I have already. Their vote 
is due in on the 29th. You have essentially one day only to influence them.
-- 
Phil Driscoll