David Atkinson said he expected new experts to prepare the report on Russia by 2007. Atkinson co-authored the current report on Russia presented to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe in summer this year. The Assembly decided to continue the monitoring of Russia.
In his report, Atkinson mentioned the existence of death penalty, tight control over the media and the legal system on the part of the state as the remaining negative aspects of the situation in Russia.
In addition, the British parliamentarian mentioned the existence of hazing in the Russian military and the lack of the freedom of conscience.
PACE monitoring reports are prepared once every two years, Atkinson said. The latest report was presented in 2005; therefore the next report is due in 2007.
The appointment of new experts to prepare a report on Russia will be discussed during the meeting of the monitoring committee scheduled for September, he added.
