According to him, turnout in presidential elections is usually 5-8 percent higher than in parliamentary elections in Russia. "I do not believe in 70 percent but we can talk about 60 percent," Mr. Veshnyakov noted. He said it was a good figure, on par with other countries. Mr. Veshnyakov recalled that turnout had been higher in presidential elections in Russia, up to 70 percent.

In December 2003, voter turnout during the December elections to State Duma elections was 56 percent.

The Central Election Commission would prepare a report on budget allocations for the parliamentary elections before the end of this week, Mr. Veshnyakov said. He added that the Audit Chamber of Russia would check how the allocated funds had been spent.

The Commission would also prepare a financial report on the presidential elections within the next three months, Mr. Veshnyakov said. According to him, a total of RUR 80m was allocated for the two election campaigns.