>Actually according to at least one insider at the time, MS also was under pressure from ex-VFP gurus who wanted VFP closed down asap to boost their own conversion, training and other commercial endeavors. Also there was a claim that a high-profile VFP knocker was granted NET MVP status if he targeted VFP effectively and accelerated the rot. The second claim was denied.

I think I know who you mean. I happen to have met this individual on more than one occasion and think he has more integrity than that. Besides, he is a .NET MVP on merit.