The High Court has been asked to strike out Earthports claim against Baltimore Technologies. Baltimore made the request on the basis that Earthport had to pay £750 in costs and provide more detail about its claim.

Baltimore added that unless the cost and interest were not paid it would seek a winding up order for Earthport. Earthport develops electronic payments systems.

The case launched by Earthport centres on alleged misrepresentation and alleged breach of contract, relating to contracts signed in 2001. Damages sought are £13.5m. It has also considered bidding for Baltimore as an additional means of recovering the money.

The Takeover Panel though has said that Earthport must make its intentions clear about a bid by January 31st.