Polish PM defends austerity measures

The Polish Prime Minister, Jerzy Buzek, has apologised to the Solidarity Trade Union for the way his cabinet introduced austerity measures, but defended them as vital to save Poland from an economic crisis.

Mr Buzek -- speaking at the Solidarity Congress held in the city of Poznan -- said he regretted the lack of consultation with Solidarity and added he was prepared for some tough negotiations.

The Polish coalition government, which in parliament depends on the support of the Solidarity-led centre-right alliance AWS, has decided to deregulate energy prices and raise taxes on fuel, alcohol, tobacco and medicine from the New Year.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service