Ellison warns HP over Hurd lawsuit

Oracle boss says HP's attempt to block the arrival of Mark Hurd shows "utter disregard" for partnership

Larry Ellison: The HP board is acting with utter disregard for that partnership

HP’s efforts to prevent Mark Hurd from joining Oracle could spell disaster for the two vendors’ long-standing partnership, Larry Ellison has warned.

The Oracle chief executive last night claimed that HP’s board is making it “virtually impossible” for the duo to work together.

Ellison’s angry comments came after HP filed a civil lawsuit aimed at preventing Hurd from joining Oracle.

Oracle appointed Hurd to the position of president on Monday and has tasked him with growing its hardware business in the wake of its acquisition of Sun. He left HP last month following an accusation of sexual harassment.

But HP claims the move would breach an agreement Hurd signed while at HP designed to protect its trade secrets.

“By working at Oracle, [Hurd] cannot help but utilise and disclose HP's trade secrets and confidential information,” HP said. A full copy of HP’s filing can be found on document-sharing site scibd.

However, Ellison immediately hit back with a broadside of his own, suggesting HP’s actions could endanger the two firms’ long-standing relationship.

“Oracle has long viewed HP as an important partner,” Ellison said.

“By filing this vindictive lawsuit against Oracle and Mark Hurd, the HP board is acting with utter disregard for that partnership, our joint customers, and their own shareholders and employees. The HP Board is making it virtually impossible for Oracle and HP to continue to cooperate and work together in the IT marketplace.”