President László Sólyom has refused a weekend request for a meeting from gay organisations, citing a busy schedule.

In seeking a meeting, the groups pointed out that radical nationalist organisations such as Jobbik, the Magyar Gárda, the 64 Counties Youth Movement and others have announced that they will try to prevent the Gay Pride March scheduled for September 5.

Gay groups hoped that Sólyom's support would increase their acceptance.

Sólyom said he had other engagements. If other organisations try to demonstrate at the same place and time as the gay march, then it is up to the authorities to enforce the law, he observed.

"We are disappointed, since the President should affirm that all citizens have equal rights," said Sándor Steigler of the Rainbow Mission Foundation.