activation of software

I bought MS Publisher in 2002 & I have recently bought a new computer and I want to install all the software from my old PC onto my new one. When I try to re-install Publisher it asks me to activate which I do & it tells me that I need to repurchase it as it is already installed on another PC - If I am disposing of my old PC why can't I simply move my software over without having to pay for it again? (I did try to contact MS support & they want £49 to answer my question!!)

 

I'm surprised this should be happening. Microsoft licensing usually permits two installs (one on the work/main PC and another on a home PC, on the proviso they're for use by the same person). The only situation where this shoudl arise would be for an OEM copy, where it's meant to be tied to a single system.

Of course, I may be wrong (and usually are

 

is there anyway of talking to MS support to do this without paying £46?