Microsoft is involved in a covert lobbying campaign which includes asking US firms to come to its support in its anti-trust battle with the European Union, according to a report in the Financial Times.

The paper claims to have a copy of a Microsoft memo sent to a number of companies urging them to lobby the US government in its support.

The memo provides the names and telephone numbers of two US officials to contact, and suggests four "talking points" that should be raised.

One 'talking point' states: "I understand that Microsoft has asked the US government to intervene directly in the trade secrets case, and I wanted you to know that our company supports that request."

The European Commission ruled last year that Microsoft had violated competition rules by abusing its dominant position in the market for computer operating systems.

Microsoft has appealed against the ruling and a court decision is due next year.

The software giant is also challenging a further EC decision which would allow rival companies to access, use and distribute Microsoft 'trade secrets'. It is in this case that the firm is seeking US government intervention.