UPDATE 1-EU antitrust chief rejects Intel comment on charges

(Previous BRUSSELS; adds background, EU spokesman quote)

By Huw Jones

JOUY-EN JOSAS, France, July 18 (Reuters) - European Union Competition Commissioner Neelie Kroes on Friday rejected chipmaker Intel's (INTC.O: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz) remarks that new charges filed against it by the European Commission would lead to higher prices for consumers.

The Commission issued additional charges against Intel on Thursday, saying the U.S. company had paid a retailer to refrain from selling computers with chips made by competitor Advanced Micro Devices (AMD.N: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz).

The Commission, the EU's executive arm, said the practice damaged competition.

"I am a bit surprised about their remarks. You can be absolutely sure (at) the Commission we are working like hell to give the customer a better competitive situation and that means more choice and better prices," Kroes told Reuters.

"Tell the Intel people they can be absolutely sure that I stick to my line," she said on the sidelines of an EU industry ministers meeting.

On Thursday, Intel lawyer Steve Rodgers said he was disappointed by the new charges.

"The result will be higher computer prices because it prevents Intel from offering discounts," he said. "Offering discounts is central to competition and good for consumers."