Question Author
Thank you ACtheTROLL and rojash.
I can't verify if the touchpad disables an external mouse but it accepts the very small wired mouse that came with the laptop.
Have tried plugging in before and after booting and tried different USB slots.
This Tesco mouse is a plug and play and therefore doesn't have a separate driver.
Have tried it on another m/c and it works.
I guess I have to accept your final conclusion that Visa dislikes all things USB.
Strangely though, the laptop accepts an optical cordless mouse connected through an USB slot.
Confused.......Curtis.