HOW PRICES GET TWISTED OUT OF SHAPE (int'l edition) ''Globalization's dirty little secret'' (Economic Viewpoint, Sept. 7) alludes to Tony Blair and his ''New Labour'' government's opportunity to end overcharging consumers and raise standards of living. How sad that already the dream of a fairer Britain is being shattered by the hand of sharp business. Perhaps Robert Kuttner is unaware that government ministers have already backed away from the muscle of auto-industry giants, helping to maintain their exorbitant charges. Yes, please let us have antitrust laws now in Britain, supported by lower income taxes, a reasonable interest rate, and rewards for entrepreneurs. Geoff Coleman Managing Director, Global Strategies Devon, Britain Bill Gates needs to read this story. Trying to stop software piracy in China by selling Internet Explorer 4.0 when he gives it away in the U.S. in his attempt to capture Internet access from Netscape Communications Corp. is as blatant an example as can be found. Piracy losses claimed are vast exaggerations and are primarily caused by pricing well beyond the target country's PC owners' ability or willingness to pay. This applies here, as well. If it is very good shareware, I buy it. If it is lousy pay-ware, I would copy it, try it, and discard it. Gunther Steinberg Portola Valley, Calif.

Updated Sept. 17, 1998 by bwwebmaster
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