e-mail hacked, can't retrieve through auto sys

I've had this e-mail address for over 8 years, it's linked to everything, my e-bay, paypal, facebook etc I need to recover it!!!

I suspect foul play on behalf of Microsoft, as they charge £50 per account recovery it's in their interest not to let you recover your account through their automated system rather charge you an extortionate amount at a later date.

I filled out everything exactly correct, including, e-mail subjects and addresses. . . .and low and behold .. .we are sorry we couldn't recover your account.

Anyone know away around this lovelly catch 22 Microsoft have put together for us?