Sorry to hear that Hug Monster, but like you I am now still unemployed.
However, I have to admit that I am not entirely surprised by the Italians reactions. We should do a bit more of that over here. At least the Italians, and particularly the French and Germans, are prepared to stand up and attempt to protect their own jobs on their own soil (yes I know that we are all in Europe now, but it is just not a level playing field, is it). How often do you heari non Brits flying the line for all sorts of UK operators.
Good luck with the jobhunting.