Russian sailors on hunger strike in Norway

Russian sailors have entered the eighth day of an indefinite hunger strike in Norway's port of Kirkenes. The ship's owners who hadn't paid them for six months left them without the money to return home.

The total debt owed to the crew tops $US 100,000. All efforts to contact their company have failed.

The sailors say they are prepared to continue strike until they get their money.

Norway's authorities have promised to offer medical help in case of an emergency.

Meanwhile in Spain another ship carrying Russian sailors which belongs to the same company is in a similar situation.