Microsoft's founder, Bill Gates, has said he advocated the company's takeover of Skype, and urged other board members to support the move.
Last week Microsoft agreed to pay $8.5bn (?5.2bn) for the loss-making internet phone service.
"I was a strong proponent at the board level for the deal being done," Mr Gates, Microsoft's chairman told the BBC's Hardtalk programme.
The multi-billion dollar deal is Microsoft's largest ever acquisition.
"I think it's a great, great deal for Skype. I think it's a great deal for Microsoft," he added.
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Bill Gates behind Skype takeover 
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