Budapest - Representatives of striking Hungarian airport workers handed over a petition on Monday to the German Embassy in Budapest, in a bid to ensure that the German-owned company operating Ferihegy International Airport adheres to European labour regulations.

Some fifty striking airport workers gathered in front of the German Embassy to present a protest to Ambassador Dorothee Janetzke- Wenzel, about what they say are unlawful strike-breaking tactics used by the airport operator Budapest Airport, a subsidiary of the German firm Hochtief.

Budapest Airport brought in 38 temporary security staff from Greece a week ago in a move that was condemned by Hungarian and European trade union organisations.

With the extra staff, Budapest Airport was able to restore service at Hungary's only major international airport, although all passengers are now being squeezed through just one of three terminals.

Francois Ballestero, political sectretary of the European Transport Workers Federation (ETF) said at the protest "I am here to show the full commitment of the ETF and its members to your cause, and I hope my presence will help make progress in negotiations."

Airport staff came out on strike on December 10 in an attempt to force BA to end a restructuring programme and extend a collective employment contract until a new one has been agreed. Unions also want backdated overtime payments and a pledge from management that there will be no job cuts before 2010 and no further outsourcing. (dpa)