Monitoring of the Federal Legislation dated 30.06.2011

Decision of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 428 of May 28, 201 on the Amendments to the Regulation on the Federal Service of State Registration, Cadastre and Cartography

Specifies the body in charge of the keeping of the Register of Self-Regulated Organisations of Mediators.

Decision of the Constitutional Court of the Russian Federation No. 10-P of May 26, 2011 on the Case of Constitutionality of Provisions of Item 1 of Article 11 of the Civil Code of the Russian Federation, Item 2 of Article 1 of the Federal Law on Third Party Arbitration Courts in the Russian Federation, Article 28 of the Federal Law on the State Registration of Rights for Immovable Property and Transactions with It, Item 1 of Article 33 and Article 51 of the Federal Law on the Hypothec (Mortgage for Immovable Property) Pursuant to the Request of the Higher Arbitration Court of the Russian Federation

Examines whether third party arbitration courts may solve disputes on immovable property.

Federal Law No. 106-FZ of June 1, 2011 on the Amendments to Article 1 of the Federal Law on the Minimum Amount of Labour Remuneration

The minimum amount of labour remuneration is increased to Rbl 4,611 per month.

Order of the Ministry of Culture of the Russian Federation No. 412 of April 28, 2011 on the Amendments to the List of Typical Archive Documents Generated in the Scientific, Technical and Production Activities of Organisations Indicating the Period of Storage Endorsed by the Order of the Ministry of Culture and Mass Communication of the Russian Federation No. 1182 of July 31, 2007

Adjusts the above list.

Order of the Federal Service for Financial Markets No. 11-6/pz-n of March 29, 2011 on the Endorsement of the Procedure for Coordination of Internal Regulations for Carrying out Operations with Accumulated Pensions Reflecting the Particulars of Activities of Trust Control of Resources of Accumulated Pensions

Management companies must coordinate their internal regulations with the Federal Service for Financial Markets of Russia.

Order of the Ministry of Mass Communication of the Russian Federation No. 39 of March 21, 2011 on the Endorsement of the Administrative Regulation of the Federal Agency for Press and Mass Communication on the Provided State Service "Issuance of Certificates Confirming the Right for Benefits Envisaged in the Legislation of the Russian Federation for Periodicals, Books and Printed Matter"

Specifies the above procedure.

Direction of the Central Bank of Russia No. 2641-U of May 30, 2011 on the Interest Rates for Deposit Operations of the Bank of Russia

The rates are increased by 0.25 percentage points.

Direction of the Central Bank of Russia No. 2617-U of April 29, 2011 on the Particulars of the Procedure of Assessment of the Economic Standing of Banks

Profitability is not taken into account for the time being.

Direction of the Central Bank of Russia No. 2612-U of April 20, 2011 on the Amendments to the Regulation of the Bank of Russia No. 283-P of March 20, 2006 on the Procedure for Credit Organisations to Form Reserves for Possible Losses

Adjusts the above procedure.

Federal Law No. 104-FZ of June 1, 2011 on the Ratification of the Protocol on Individual Temporary Exemptions from the Regime of Functioning of the Joint Customs Territory of the Customs Union

Member-countries of the Customs Union preserve a number of restrictions in mutual trade for the time being.

Federal Law No. 103-FZ of June 1, 2011 on the Ratification of the Agreement on the Rules of Determination of the Country of Origin of Goods in the Commonwealth of Independent States

Unifies the rules of determination of the country of origin of goods on the territory of the Commonwealth of Independent States.

Order of the Ministry of Public Health and Social Development of the Russian Federation No. 280n of April 8, 2011 on the Amendments to Order of the Ministry of Public Health and Social Development of the Russian Federation No. 277n of May 27, 2009 on the Organisation and Implementation of the Monitoring of Prices and Variety of Medicines in Stationary Treatment-and-Prevention and Apothecary Institutions (Organisations) of the Russian Federation

Refines the above procedure.

Information of the Federal Service of Enforcement in the Area of Protection of Consumer Rights and Human Well-Being of May 30, 2011 on the Prohibition of Import and Circulation of Fresh Vegetables Produced in Germany and Spain

The salad of imported vegetables may contain coli bacillus.

Letter of the Departmetn of the Tax and Customs Tariff Policy of the Ministry of Finance of the Russian Federation No. 03-04-06/6-107 of May 13, 2011 on the Tax on Incomes from Natural Persons for the Cost of Drinking Water Purchased by the Organisation for Its Employees

In this case, employees are regarded as getting incomes in kind, and the organisation as fulfilling the functions of a tax agent.

Federal Law No. 104-FZ of June 1, 2011 on the Ratification of the Protocol on Individual Temporary Exemptions from the Regime of Functioning of the Joint Customs Territory of the Customs Union

Member-countries of the Customs Union preserve a number of restrictions in mutual trade for the time being.

Federal Law No. 103-FZ of June 1, 2011 on the Ratification of the Agreement on the Rules of Determination of the Country of Origin of Goods in the Commonwealth of Independent States

Unifies the rules of determination of the country of origin of goods on the territory of the Commonwealth of Independent States.

Order of the Ministry of Public Health and Social Development of the Russian Federation No. 280n of April 8, 2011 on the Amendments to Order of the Ministry of Public Health and Social Development of the Russian Federation No. 277n of May 27, 2009 on the Organisation and Implementation of the Monitoring of Prices and Variety of Medicines in Stationary Treatment-and-Prevention and Apothecary Institutions (Organisations) of the Russian Federation

Refines the above procedure.

Order of the Ministry of Public Health and Social Development of the Russian Federation No. 280n of April 8, 2011 on the Amendments to Order of the Ministry of Public Health and Social Development of the Russian Federation No. 277n of May 27, 2009 on the Organisation and Implementation of the Monitoring of Prices and Variety of Medicines in Stationary Treatment-and-Prevention and Apothecary Institutions (Organisations) of the Russian Federation

Refines the above procedure.

Information of the Federal Service of Enforcement in the Area of Protection of Consumer Rights and Human Well-Being of May 30, 2011 on the Prohibition of Import and Circulation of Fresh Vegetables Produced in Germany and Spain

The salad of imported vegetables may contain coli bacillus.

Letter of the Departmetn of the Tax and Customs Tariff Policy of the Ministry of Finance of the Russian Federation No. 03-04-06/6-107 of May 13, 2011 on the Tax on Incomes from Natural Persons for the Cost of Drinking Water Purchased by the Organisation for Its Employees

In this case, employees are regarded as getting incomes in kind, and the organisation as fulfilling the functions of a tax agent.

Decision of the Higher Arbitration Court of the Russian Federation No. VAS-3440/11 of May 17, 2011

The forms of tax declarations must be updated to reflect changes in the legislation.

Order of the Federal Service for Financial Markets No. 11-7/pz-n of April 5, 2011 on the Endorsement of the Requirements to the Rules of Broker Activities in the Cases of Operations with Monetary Resources of Broker Clients

Introduces new such rules.

Federal Law No. 132-FZ of June 7, 2011 on the Amendments to Article 95 of Part 1, Part 2 of the Tax Code of the Russian Federation Pertaining to the Forming of Favourable Taxation Conditions for Innovative Activities and Article 5 of the Federal Law on the Amendments to Part 2 of the Tax Code of the Russian Federation and Individual Legislative Acts of the Russian Federation

Development of innovations is promoted with tax measures.

Decision of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 441 of June 3, 2011 on the Amendments to Some Acts of the Government of the Russian Federation on the Issues of Import to the Territory of the Russian Federation of Medicines for Medical Application

Specifies the cases of import of medicines under permission of the Ministry of Public Health and Social Development of Russia without the license of the Ministry of the Industry and Trade.

Order of the Ministry of Transport of the Russian Federation No. 125 of April 27, 2011 on the Endorsement of the Procedure to Carry out Weight and Dimensions Control of Transport Vehicles, Including the Procedure to Arrange the Points of Weight and Dimensions Control of Transport Vehicles

Specifies the above procedures.

Order of the Federal Tax Service No. MMV-7-2/203@ of March 15, 2011 on the Endorsement of the Procedure to Submit to Banks Documents Used by Tax Bodies for the Implementation of Their Powers in Relations Regulated by the Legislation on Taxes and Fees and the Procedure for Banks to Provide Information to Requests of Tax Bodies in the Electronic Form over Telecommunication Channels (Registered in the Ministry of Justice of the Russian Federation on May 31, 2011, Registration No. 20900)

Specifies the above procedures.

Letter of the Federal Tax Service No. АС-4-2/8931@ of June 6, 2011 on the Processing of Applications for the Import of Goods and Payment of Indirect Taxes for the Goods Accepted for Registration before July 1, 2010

Specifies the above procedure.

Order of the Ministry of Transport of the Russian Federation No. 130 of April 29, 2011 on the Endorsement of the Transportation Safety Requirements Taking Account of the Safety Levels for Various Categories of Objects in the Underground

Specifies the above requirements.

Order of the Ministry of the Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation No. 524 of April 15, 2011 on the Endorsement of the List of Personal Identification Documents Permitting to Identify the Age of the Buyer of Alcoholic Products the Seller May Demand If He Has Doubts That the Buyer Has Come of Age

Selling alcohol to the underage is prohibited.

Order of the Federal Highway Agency No. 53 of May 23, 2011 on the Temporary Restriction of Travel of Transport Vehicles over Public-Use Highways of Federal Significance in the Summer of 2011

Introduces restrictions on the travel of cargo transport vehicles over public-use highways of federal significance from June 15 to August 15.

Order of the Ministry of Finance of the Russian Federation No. 43n of April 19, 2011 on the Endorsement of Economic Normatives of Sufficiency of Own Resources and Liquidity for Microfinancial Organisations Attracting Monetary Resources of Natural Persons and Legal Entities in the Form of Loans

Specifies the above requirements.

Federal Law No. 133-FZ of June 13, 2011 on Amending the Federal Law on the State Regulation of the Organisation and Realisation of Gambling and on Amending Some Legislative Acts of the Russian Federation

It is established that a gambling business, rather than a part thereof, may operate as a bookmaker office. A definition of the purpose of operation thereof and a description of its structural units and the mutual relations thereof are provided. Gambling machines and tables are prohibited for being used outside of gambling zones. Betting shops require a licence. Effective as of January 1, 2012.

Decree of the President of the Russian Federation No. 750 of June 10, 2011 on Amending the Regulations on the Law-Enforcement Service in Narcotics and Psychotropic Substance Control Bodies Endorsed by Decree of the President of the Russian Federation No. 613 of June 5, 2003

Drug control personnel are entitled to use physical force and to carry and apply firearms and special facilities. The decree comes into force when signed.

Decision of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 451 of June 8, 2011 on the Infrastructure Supporting the Information-Technological Interaction of the Information Systems Used to Provide State and Municipal Services in an Electronic Form

Details of said infrastructure as a comprehensive complex made up of information technology and telecommunication components are provided for the purpose of safely, smoothly and effectively maintaining two-way dealings with applicants and monitoring the interaction of the various bodies and organisations. Once fed into the system, information will be used several times by means of a single system and regional systems of interdepartmental electronic cooperation. The state information systems constituting the infrastructure are going to be commissioned by July 1, 2012. The decision on this subject matter adopted earlier is superseded.

Decision of the Commission of the Customs Union No. 661 of May 19, 2011 on Adjusting the Rate of Import Customs Duty of the Uniform Customs Tariff of the Customs Union in Respect of Phosphates

Ground phosphates import is subject to zero duty rate until the end of 2011. Effective as of the date of official publication.

Decision of the Commission of the Customs Union No. 660 of May 19, 2011 on Including the Vessels Used as Accumulating Tanks for Petroleum Product Exportation Purposes (CC FEA of the Customs Union Code 8901) in the List of Goods Temporarily Imported as Fully Conditionally Exempt from Customs Duties and Taxes

Defines which sea vessels are eligible for duty-free and tax-free temporary import and describes the conditions making them eligible. Effective as of the date of official publication.

Letter of the Ministry of Regional Development of the Russian Federation No. 15076-KK/08 of June 9, 2011

Contains indices catering for forecast inflation and affecting cost estimates for prospecting, designing, building and erection works as well as other costs and equipment, recommended for application in Quarter II of 2011. The indices are intended for being used in preparation for tenders concerning the projects where federal budget funds are involved. Not applicable to mutual settlements of accounts for works completed.

Federal Law No. 135-FZ of June 14, 2011 on Abolishing the Lomonosov District Court of the Federal-Significance City of St. Petersburg

Brings the city's judicial system in line with the legislation.

Federal Law. No. 134-FZ of June 14, 2011 on Abolishing Some District Courts of Perm Kray

Abolishes five small-staff district courts for the purpose of streamlining the general jurisdiction court system in that region.

Decision of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 462 of June 10, 2011 on Endorsing the Rules for Determining the Coefficient Kt to Compute the Maximum Deductible Amount for the Purposes of the Mining Tax on Coal

According to the decision occupational safety and health expenses qualify as deductible in the taxation of coal mining or in the taxation of profit. The procedure and paperwork required for businesses to apply for the deductible are described.

Decision of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 460 of June 10, 2011 on Cap on the Cost of One Square Metre of Total Area of Dwelling Premises at the Acquisition (Construction) Thereof for Federal State Needs

The cap of 30,000 roubles per square metre is set for cases when dwelling premises are acquired for federal state needs. A system for computing the cap in the future is defined as taking into account the market value of living quarters. The cap may be exceeded by a decision of the Government of the Russian Federation.

Decision of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 455 of June 10, 2011 on Endorsing a List of the Types of Expenses Relating to Occupational Safety and Health in Coal Mining Accepted as Deductible for the Purposes of the Mining Tax

Concerning the amendments to the Tax Code, effective from April 1, 2011, related to the mining tax on coal, the decision defines which expenses may qualify as deductible. Such expenses will be recorded separately from the other costs relating to the development of subsoil tracts and be recognised according to the policies for taxation purposes that can be changed once in five or more years.

Federal Law No. 143-FZ of June 14, 2011 on Amending Some Legislative Acts of the Russian Federation for the Purpose of Improving the Mechanisms Whereby Citizens' Electoral Rights Are Ensured

Makes it easier for disabled persons to take part in the various elections as voters or candidates.

Federal Law No. 142-FZ of June 14, 2011 on Amending Some Legislative Acts of the Russian Federation in Connection with the Improvement of Legal Regulation of the Mass Media

A universal licence is instituted for television and radio broadcasting in any media (ground, air, cable and satellite), the effective term thereof set at ten years. The preparation and dissemination of television and radio channel packages by means of satellite capacity is separated from broadcasting and requires a permit issued by a federal executive body. One and the same procedure governs the distribution of foreign television and radio channels and domestic ones as they have to be registered in Russia as mass media. Definitions are provided for the mass medium and the network edition. A state information system is created in the area of mass media. The President of the Russian Federation will endorse a list of compulsory general-access television and radio channels which will be issued with a universal licence without an auction to broadcast on the entire territory of Russia. A broadcaster must inform the licensor about the communication operators providing services thereto in terms of transmitting television and radio channel, and a communication operator, about the broadcasters cooperating with him. Except for some provisions, the law enters into force as of November 10, 2011. The licences issued earlier shall keep effective until the end of their term.

Federal Law No. 140-FZ of June 14, 2011 on Amending Article 14 of the Civil Procedural Code of the Russian Federation and Article 30 of the Criminal Procedural Code of the Russian Federation

According to the law the composition of a court may be formed by means of an automated information system allowing to avoid the influence of biased persons.

Federal Law No. 139-FZ of June 14, 2011 on Amending the Federal Law on Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances in Connection with the Improvement of Control over Transactions Involving the Precursors of Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances

Enhances control in respect of some precursors which are not used in the industry but may be used in the preparation of narcotics and psychotropic substances, such precursors being included in List I (circulation prohibited), while the precursors used in the industry and households still remain in List IV (transactions limited). Accordingly, the precursors from List I may be used only for scientific, educational, expert and investigation purposes. Any operations involving precursors and resulting in a change in quantity thereof are to be recorded in log-books kept for ten years. The law enters into force upon the expiry of 120 days after being officially published.

Federal Law No. 137-FZ of June 14, 2011 on Amending the Forest Code of the Russian Federation and Article 71 of the Federal Law on Hunting and Conservation of Game Resources and on Amending Some Legislative Acts of the Russian Federation

The federal authorities have the power to set age limits for logging and define rules for the procurement of forest resources, forest restoration, fire and sanitary safety in woodlands etc. in respect of the various types of woods. Geological prospecting of the sub-soil on woodlands does not necessarily require the allocation of a forest tract, unless it implies cutting plants and erecting major structures. With some exceptions, like hydrocarbon geological and mining facilities, major construction sites are prohibited in forests located in water protection zones. Also, major construction sites (with said exceptions) are prohibited in the no-go zones of forests near bodies of water. From July 1, 2011 to July 1, 2012 the effective hunting licences issued before that date have to be replaced with similar standard-design documents.

Federal Law No. 136-FZ of June 14, 2011 on Medical Assistance for the Russian Federation Citizens Being Members of the Civilian Personnel of Military Formations of the Russian Federation Stationed on the Territories of Some Foreign States, Their Family Members and the Family Members of Military Servicemen Undergoing Military Service under a Contract in These Military Formations and on Amending Article 11 of the Federal Law on Mandatory Medical Insurance in the Russian Federation

It is established that family members of the military servicemen of the units deployed in the Commonwealth of Independent States and in Abkhazia and the South Ossetia are eligible for free medical assistance. The Government of the Russian Federation designates companies to provide mandatory medical insurance for non-working citizens.

Federal Law No. 136-FZ of June 14, 2011 on Medical Assistance for the Russian Federation Citizens Being Members of the Civilian Personnel of Military Formations of the Russian Federation Stationed on the Territories of Some Foreign States, Their Family Members and the Family Members of Military Servicemen Undergoing Military Service under a Contract in These Military Formations and on Amending Article 11 of the Federal Law on Mandatory Medical Insurance in the Russian Federation

It is established that family members of the military servicemen of the units deployed in the Commonwealth of Independent States and in Abkhazia and the South Ossetia are eligible for free medical assistance. The Government of the Russian Federation designates companies to provide mandatory medical insurance for non-working citizens.

Decision of the Constitutional Court of the Russian Federation No. 12-P of June 9, 2011 on the Case of Verification of the Constitutionality of Provisions of Item 7 of Article 16 of the Law of the Russian Federation on the Status of Judges in the Russian Federation and Part 1 of 9 of the Federal Law on Operative Investigation in Connection with the Complaint of Citizen I.V. Anosov

The decision is dedicated to the admissibility of investigative measures in respect of district court judges when they are not accused or no criminal action concerning judges has been brought but such measures restrict their civil rights or immunity. Permission to take the measures may be given by a panel of three judges of a higher court of a certain level in the procedure defined in that decision by the Constitutional Court which deems the rules may be further updated by the federal legislator.

Order of the Ministry of Public Health and Social Development of the Russian Federation No. 342n of April 26, 2011 on Endorsing the Procedure for an Appraisal of Working Places in Terms of Working Conditions

New detailed rules are provided for an assessment of working places, effective from September 1, 2011. As before, it is to be carried out at least once in five years to see if employees' working conditions comply with hygienic and safety-on-the-job standards. A report will be drawn up for each working place, sent to a state inspectorate, and the employee must read it.

Order of the Ministry of Finance of the Russian Federation No. 44n of April 19, 2011 on Endorsing the Procedure for Keeping a State Register of Self-Regulating Organisations of Credit Consumer Cooperatives

Rules for keeping such state register are provided. An organisation willing to register or amend an entry in the register is to apply to the Ministry of Finance of the Russian Federation. The information contained in the register is open for the public and governmental bodies and is available in the internet free of charge.

Letter of the Bank of Russia No. 87-T of June 14, 2011 on the Methodological Recommendations on the Provision and Disclosure of Information on Long-Term Assets (or Disposal Groups) Intended for Sale or Distribution when Credit Organisations Draw up Financial Statements in Accordance with the International Accounting Standards

Explains how information is to be disclosed in a credit organisation's accounting statements and how long-term assets (or disposal groups held for sale or distribution to owners) are to be classified, appraised and re-classified. The basic financial statements are described. The letter is applicable from the date of publication in Vestnik Banka Rossii.

Federal Law No. 141-FZ of June 14, 2011 on Amending the Code of Mercantile Navigation of the Russian Federation

Mostly these amendments concern changes in the structure and powers of federal executive governmental bodies and eliminate the drawbacks that had revealed themselves in practical application. Responsibility for supervising the observance of international agreements and the Russian legislation on mercantile navigation is now vested in the federal executive governmental body in charge of control and supervision in the area of transport. Also the body will deal with investigating accidents at sea according to regulations. The federal executive governmental body in charge of fishing will supervise mercantile navigation inasmuch as it concerns the safety of fishing fleet vessels when they navigate in fishing areas. Navigation and hydrographical support in respect of sea routes falls within the area of responsibility of the body in charge of national defence, except for Northern sea routes and the areas of sea ports and approaches thereto which will be within the jurisdiction of the federal executive governmental body responsible for the provision of state services and management of state property in the area of sea transport. According to the law the captain of a vessel is to commit certain actions in respect of perpetrators of wrongdoings contravening the law and endangering the safety of sea navigation. Vessels carrying over 2,000 tons of oil in bulk will have problems if they fail to have a certificate of financial security for civil liability for oil spillage, for instance will be prohibited to call at Russian ports and leave them.

Federal Law No. 138-FZ of June 14, 2011 on Amending Article 16 of the Federal Law on Promoting Housing Construction and the Land Code of the Russian Federation

According to the amendments citizens having more than two children acquire the right to get a land plot free of charge, for example to build a house on it. The grounds and procedure for it shall be established by laws of the subjects of the Russian Federation. State cadastral record of pieces of immovable property may be kept for instance by a state budget-funded institution under the jurisdiction of the federal executive governmental body empowered to keep such record. Land plots may be transferred free of charge from state ownership into municipal on, and from the ownership of one municipal formation into the ownership of another, the purpose of that being the need to grant such land plots to citizens free of charge. Effective as of the date of official publication.

Decision of the Commission of the Customs Union No. 662 of May 19, 2011 on Amending the List of the Goods Temporarily Imported as Fully Conditionally Exempt from Customs Duties and Taxes endorsed by Decision of the Commission of the Customs Union No. 331 of June 18, 2010 and Amending Decision of the Commission of the Customs Union No. 375 of September 20, 2010

Allows to temporarily import civil passenger planes featuring up to 19 passenger seats free of customs charges for up to 30 days (180 days over the calendar year). Also some aspects of customs procedure application are modified.

Letter of the Federal Service for Supervision over Protection of Consumers' Rights and Human Wellbeing No. 01/7310-1-32 of June 15, 2011 on the Requirements Applicable to Organising the Provision of Meals for Children in Summer Health-Rehabilitation Institutions

Stricter sanitary and hygienic rules are introduced in children's camps, for instance certain foodstuffs and meals listed in detail in the letter are prohibited to be on the menu.

Federal Law No. 145-FZ of June 17, 2011 on Amending the Law of the Russian Federation on Education

Concerns supplementary general-education curricula in the field of the arts and children's schools of the arts. The aim is to find gifted children and prepare them for enrolling in specialised educational institutions

Federal Law No. 144-FZ of June 16, 2011 on Amending the Law of the Russian Federation on Education and the Federal Law on Higher and Post-Graduate Professional Education

Introduces the assistant probation as a form of two-year post-graduate education for creative performers in the area of culture and the arts. Federal executive governmental bodies are designated as responsible for setting federal state standards governing the structure of basic curricula for post-graduate studies in the various areas including culture and public-health.

Decision of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 465 of June 14, 2011 on Establishing the Living Wage on a Per-Capita Basis and for the Main Socio-Demographic Groups of the Population for the Russian Federation as a Whole for Quarter I of the Year 2011

For Quarter I of 2011 the living wage for Russia as a whole has grown by more than 500 roubles as compared with the preceding period, to reach 6,473 roubles for capable persons and 5,122 roubles for retirees. In Russia it is used to assess the standard of living and to set the minimum wage, stipends, benefits and other social allowances.

Order of the Ministry of Regional Development of the Russian Federation No. 181 of April 18, 2011 on Endorsing the Form of an Agreement for Provision of Subsidies out of the Federal Budget for the Budgets of Subjects of the Russian Federation for the Purpose of Developing Housing Construction in the Subjects of the Russian Federation within the Framework of the Subprogramme "Provision of Incentives for Programmes of Development of Housing Construction of Subjects of the Russian Federation " of the Federal Target Programme "Dwelling" for the Years 2011-2015

Within the framework of aforesaid programme regions are eligible for subsidies. To receive them they have to conclude an agreement with the Ministry of Regional Development of the Russian Federation, the form of the agreement being provided by this order.

Federal Law No. 146-FZ of June 17, 2011 on Amending Articles 348.2 and 348.11 of the Labour Code of the Russian Federation

Concerns the use of doping by sportsmen. A sportsman's labour contract is to include his undertaking to observe international and domestic anti-doping rules and provide information on his whereabouts for testing purposes. A contract concluded with a coach must include his undertaking to take measures for preventing a breach of said rules by sportsmen. Employers have the duty to make sure sportsmen and coaches know said rules. From now on, the labour contract may be rescinded for a breach of said rules rather than for the use of prohibited substances or methods revealed by tests. The fact that the breach has taken place must be recognised by a relevant anti-doping organisation.

Order of the Ministry of Public Health and Social Development of the Russian Federation No. 347n of April 26, 2011 on Endorsing the Form of a Sick Leave Certificate

A new sick leave certificate form is introduced, effective from July 1, 2011, allowing the accrual of a sickness benefit according to new rules (on the basis of the average wage for two calendar years).

Letter of the Ministry of Finance of the Russian Federation No. 02-03-06/2736 of June 20, 2011

From January 1, 2012 the proceeds from the provision of services by federal state institutions for payment, the use of federal property and from other activities will be entered in the federal budget. When budget appropriations for them are being determined account may be taken of the expenses towards their provision of services for payment.

Letter of the Federal Tax Service No. ED-4-3/9530@ of June 16, 2011 on the Data Required for Computing the Mining Tax on Oil for the Month of May of 2011

The letter explains how the rate of the mining tax on oil is to be calculated for the month of May of 2011 depending on the variation in the world oil prices and the degree of depletion of a specific oilfield tract.

Federal Law No. 147-FZ of June 21, 2011 on Amending Article 217 of Part 2 of the Tax Code of the Russian Federation and Article 4 of the Federal Law on the Personal Subsidiary Farm

The law grants exemption from the personal income tax to funds allocated from budgets for the purpose of developing personal subsidiary farms and to proceeds from the sale of their animal and plant products, subject to certain conditions including for instance the size of the land plot.

Resolution of the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation No. GKPI11-617 of June 6, 2011

Permits businesses and institutions to issue powers of attorney for receiving goods and valuables including cash to persons other than their own employees.

Direction of the Central Bank of the Russian Federation No. 2638-U of May 17, 2011 on Amending the Instructions of the Bank of Russia No. 135-I of April 2, 2010 on the Procedure for the Bank of Russia to Take a Decision on the State Registration of Credit Organisations and the Issuance of Banking Transaction Licences

Modifies the procedures governing the registration and operation of banks. For instance, now banks may get separate licences to carry out transactions in legal entities' funds without being entitled to provide cash services to clients. A list of the documents required for the state registration of lending institutions and the issuance of banking transaction licences is updated. If a territorial institution of the Central Bank refuses to register a bank and issue a licence thereto it will send the documents to the central staff of the Bank of Russia rather than returning them to the applicant.

Direction of the Central Bank of the Russian Federation No. 2634-U of May 13, 2011 on Amending Annex 4 to the Regulations of the Bank of Russia No. 2-P of October 3, 2002 on Nonсash Settlements of Accounts in the Russian Federation

Modifies the form of payment instructions used in noncash settlements of accounts to bring it in line with recommendations of the international Financial Action Task Force.

Decision of the Government of the Russian Federation of 22 June 2011 г. No. 494 on Endorsing the Rates of Export Customs Duties on Crude Oil and Certain Categories of Petroleum Products Exported to Destinations outside of the Territories of the Russian Federation and of the States Being Party to the Agreements on the Customs Union

Export duties on crude oil and petroleum products are reduced, effective as of July 1, 2011, for instance for oil from $462.1 to $445,1 per ton. Duty on light and medium distillates, gas oil, benzene, toluene and xylene fall to $298.2 per ton. The rate for propane, butane, ethylene, propylene, butylene and butadiene and other liquefied gases is set at $172,9 per ton (earlier it was $189.8). The rate is reduced from $215.8 to $207.8 for exported liquid fuels, oils, used petroleum products, petrolatum, mineral wax and some other products. For oil with density at 20°С from 694.7 to 887.6 kg/cu. m and sulphur from 0.04 to 1,5 the rate is reduced from $217.5 to $205,8 per ton, except for the oil produced in Vankor, Verkhnaya Chona and Talakan Oil and Gas Condensate fields. The decision enters into force as of July 1, 2011.

Decision of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 485 of June 20, 2011 on Endorsing the Regulations on the State System Intended to Monitor the Drug Situation in the Russian Federation

A procedure is defined for using the various sources of information to keep watch on narcotics on the federal and regional levels including monitoring transactions involving drugs and their precursors and fighting the illegal traffic involving them. Non-medical consumption of drugs, medical treatment and rehabilitation of addicts will be controlled. The objective is to assess the prevailing situation in Russia, the scope of drug traffic and consumption, threats to national security and the effectiveness of anti-drug policies. A comprehensive databank on drugs, psychotropic substances and their precursors will be kept on national and regional levels.

Decision of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 480 of June 20, 2011 on Amending and Deeming No Longer Effective Some Acts of the Government of the Russian Federation in Connection with the Adoption of the Federal Law on Amending Some Legislative Acts of the Russian Federation in Connection with the Transfer of the Powers to Exercise Some Kinds of State Control to the Customs Bodies of the Russia Federation

The decision is relating to Federal Law No. 394-FZ of December 28, 2010. Customs bodies are to exercise transport, veterinary and phytosanitary control at the state border and are entitled to take decisions on clearance of vehicles and products for being brought into Russia or taken out of this country or sent to special check-points for being inspected by officials of the Federal Service for Supervision over Protection of Consumers' Rights and Human Wellbeing and the Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Supervision. The formerly effective rules concerning the documents submitted to customs bodies at check-points have been superseded. The decision comes into force as of the effective date of the aforesaid law.

Decision of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 476 of June 20, 2011 on Amending and Deeming No Longer Effective Some Acts of the Government of the Russian Federation on Conferring Academic Ranks

The procedure for conferring academic ranks is modified in line with changes in the legislation. Earlier certain academic ranks, like professor, used to be conferred by the Federal Service for Supervision over Education and Science, and by the Higher Qualification Certification Commission of the Ministry of Education and Science. Now it is the prerogative of the Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian Federation on a statement issued by the Higher Qualification Certification Commission. Earlier the Federal Service for Supervision over Education and Science could grant the right to conduct a final expert examination of appraisal documents for seekers of ranks to the academic boards of some higher educational and qualification upgrade institutions. This norm is no longer effective.

Decision of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 474 of June 20, 2011 on Endorsing the Regulations on the Higher Qualification Certification Commission under the Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian Federation

Defines the powers of the Higher Qualification Certification Commission to support the state appraisal of scientific and teaching staff by means of submitting statements to the Ministry on matters like the conferring of academic ranks and the equivalency of foreign countries' certificates of scientific degrees and academic ranks as well as issuing recommendations concerning examinations etc. The members of the commission are to be doctors of sciences and specialists in sciences, technology, education and culture confirmed by the Government of the Russian Federation for a five-year term.

Order of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 1021-r of June 10, 2011

A Concept of Reducing Administrative Barriers and Improving Access to Municipal and State Services for the Years 2011-2013 is provided as well as a plan for implementing it. Complex services rather than separate ones will be provided to the public for such cases as the birth of a child, the purchase of immovable property, the opening of a business et. The various types of registration (residence, military, cadastral, taxation), the provision of pensions and benefits, the issuance of driving licences etc. will be optimised. 1500 multi-functional centres will be set up to provide services to the public. A uniform list of the types of activity subject to licensing and a procedure for the licensing thereof will be established.

Order of the Ministry of Economic Development of the Russian Federation No. 203 of April 29, 2011 on Endorsing the Procedure for Supervising the Activities of Self-Regulating Organisations of Appraisers

A procedure is provided for the Federal Service on State Registration, Cadastre and Cartography (Rosreestr) to monitor the activities of self-regulating organisations of appraisers to check if they observe the Russian legislation -- by means of inspections and verification of documents.

Decision of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 497 of June 23, 2011 on Amending the Technical Regulations on the Safety of Gas-Distribution and Gas-Consumption Networks

Tightens the fire-safety rules concerning the construction and arrangement of gas networks.

Decision of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 481 of June 20, 2011 on Setting the Rates of Official Salaries of the Personnel of the Investigation Committee of the Russian Federation, for Instance of the Military Investigation Bodies of the Investigation Committee of the Russian Federation, Whose Jobs Require Special (Military) Ranks

The rates of salary are set for the various categories of personnel of the Investigation Committee as percentage of the salary of First Deputy Chairman thereof. Amendment is made to the decision of the Government of the Russian Federation setting the rates of salary of the personnel of the procurator's office of the Russian Federation as percentage of the salary of First Deputy Procurator General of the Russian Federation.

Order of the Federal Financial Markets Service No. 11-23/pz-n of May 24, 2011 on Endorsing the Standard Rates of Sufficiency of the Owner's Equity of Professional Participants in the Securities Market and Also of the Managing Companies of Investment Companies, Unit Investment Trusts and Non-State Pension Funds

Effective July 1, 2011, the standard rates of owner's equity will be raised only for the companies managing investment or non-state pension funds to reach 80,000,000 roubles (60,000,000 at present). Similar rate is set for the specialised depositaries of said funds. The increase in the standard rates planned for the rest of the professional participants in the securities market has been cancelled. For clearing organisations the minimum rate of 80,000,000 roubles is set as applicable until January 1, 2012. Professional participants in the securities market may reduce the rate if they insure liability or if a self-regulating organisation is asking for it. The order comes into force as of July 1, 2011. It does not extend to lending organisations.

Decision of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 498 of June 23, 2011 on Some Issues of Pursuance of Private Detective (Investigation) and Private Security Activities

Sets out rules for licensing private detective (investigation) and security activities and carrying out such activities, both institutions and individual entrepreneurs. A list of the types of technical security facilities used to protects installations and property is confirmed as well as a list of licence terms and conditions for each type of security services. A private detective may either provide investigative services under a contract with each client or gather information concerning a criminal case on an order of parties to litigation. For the latter, the licensee is to notify in writing an inquirer, investigator or the court within 24 hours. The Government's decision endorsing the Regulations on Licensing Non-State (Private) Security and Investigation Activity is superseded.

Decision of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 475 of June 20, 2011 on Amending Decision of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 74 of January 30, 2002

Modifies the procedure for conferring scientific degrees on scientists and teaching staff. It is defined that certificates issued by the Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian Federation are recognised as well as other documents for the purposes of conferring such degrees. New regulations on the procedure for conferring scientific degrees is adopted. For instance, the Degree of Doctor of Science is awarded by a board for defence of the theses of seekers of Degree of Candidate (Doctor) of Science. For that purpose a seeker is to publicly defend his thesis and is supposed to hold Degree of Candidate of Science. The Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian Federation will issue a certificate of doctor of science on the basis of a decision of the aforesaid board and a positive statement of the Higher Qualification Certification Board under the Ministry. A person may be deprived of his degree by the Ministry or the board for defence of theses.

Order of the Federal Customs Service No. 1070 of May 27, 2011 on Endorsing the Regulations on Carrying out Customs Transactions and Customs Control in Respect of Aircraft and the Goods Carries by Them

Provides a new procedure for customs control in respect of aircraft and goods they carry due to the adoption of the new Law on Customs Regulation. A carrier has the duty of notifying a customs body of the arrival of an aircraft in the territory of the Customs Union by means of providing certain documents and information, for instance documents acknowledging that bans and restrictions have been observed, save non-tariff regulation measures. Information may be provided before the actual arrival. When goods are leaving a document allowing their exportation must be filed. The documents may be filed by a customs representative or other persons on his instructions. If the customs body has no information about such person the captain of the aircraft or the crew member having relevant powers will be treated as such person. Goods prohibited for import must be immediately taken out of the territory by the carrier or their owner. Another procedure may be envisaged by the legislation or international contracts of the member states of the Customs Union. Otherwise, the goods will be apprehended and placed in a temporary storage warehouse deemed a customs control zone. The order enters into force upon the expiry of 30 days after being officially published. The provisions concerning the electronic filing of documents are effective from January 1, 2012.

Order of the Federal Customs Service No. 976 of May 12, 2011 on the Form of a Declaration to a Customs Body of Updated Information about the Goods Declared in a Periodical Customs Declaration

Provides forms whereby information on the goods declared in a periodical customs declaration can be updated, i.e. KDT1 and KDT2 deemed an integral part of the customs declaration. Order of the Federal Customs Service of the Russian Federation No. 2407 of December 13, 2010 previously defining the manner in which such information could be updated is superseded. The order enters into force upon the expiry of 30 days after being officially published.

Decision of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 492 of June 20, 2011 on the Federal Goal-Oriented Programme "The Russian Language" for the Years 2011 - 2015

A programme aimed at supporting, preserving and propagating the Russian Language, for instance among compatriots residing abroad, is confirmed. It envisages the elaboration and publication of dictionaries, grammar books, manuals etc., the preparation of materials and recommendations for fostering cultural and professional relations with compatriots in foreign countries, the re-training and upgrading of teachers etc. The total sum of funds for the programme is 2,526.66 million roubles, including 2,179.1 million roubles from the federal budget and 142.16 million roubles from regional budgets. The Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian Federation and the Federal Agency for Affairs of the CIS and Humanitarian Cooperation are responsible for implementation of the programme.

Order of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation No. 386 of May 17, 2011 on Amending the Instructions on the Procedure for Internal Affairs Bodies of the Russian Federation to Accept, Register and Resolve Applications, Messages and Other Information Concerning Incidents endorsed by Order of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation No. 333 of May 4, 2010

Amends the instructions for handling applications and information concerning incidents, in line with the Law on Police.

The Budget Address of President of the Russian Federation D.A.Medvedev of June 29, 2011 on the Budget Policy in the Years 2012-2014

The President of Russia has presented his budget address for 2012-2014. It comprises the results of the 2010 and 2011 budget policy, main challenges and sets out goals and objectives for the next three years. The federal budget for 2012 and the planned period of 2013-2014 will ensure a self-sustained post-crisis development, modernisation of the economy and enhance the level and quality of life of citizens, national defence and security and the effectiveness and transparency of state governance. The dependence of the budget on market volatility and the budget deficit are to be reduced. The measures proposed include the introduction of programme budgets on all levels of government from 2012, a cardinal reconstruction of the state purchases system, the privatisation of large parcels of shares in key state-controlled companies (save infrastructure companies and those affecting national security). In the tax field consolidated statements for the purposes of the profit tax are going to be used and the preparation for the introduction of local tax on immovable property will be completed. For 2012-2013 the rates of insurance contributions to state non-budget funds will be cut from 34% to 30%, and for small businesses and those using a simplified taxation procedure to 20%. Also taxation mechanisms for oil and gas as well as tobacco and spirits shall be improved, and the uniform tax on imputed income will be replaced with a licence system. The necessary financing must be provided for all existing undertakings, like the reform of allowance of money for military servicemen, internal affairs personnel etc., the rising of pensions and social benefits and the upgrading of the public health and education systems. Special attention is paid to the provision of incentives for Russia's innovation development. Decentralisation is envisaged for the area of inter-budget relations, for instance through the use of state programmes.

Federal Law No. 168-FZ of June 28, 2011 on Amending Articles 64.1 and 77 of the Federal Law on Mortgage (Mortgage of Immovable Property) and the Federal Law on the Savings-Mortgage System for the Provision of Dwellings to Military Servicemen

Laws concerning the mortgage and savings-mortgage system for the provision of dwellings to military servicemen are modified. The list of the persons eligible for taking part in the system is broadened.

Federal Law No. 167-FZ of June 28, 2011 on Amending Article 24 of the Federal Law on the Duty to Undergo Military Service and on Military Service

School leavers are given an opportunity to try to enrol in a secondary vocational or higher educational institution before they are drafted in the autumn. The list of the categories of citizens entitled to draft deferment is expanded.

Federal Law No. 166-FZ of June 27, 2011 on the Ratification of the Agreement between the Russian Federation and the Azerbaijan Republic on the State Border

Said agreement has been ratified. It defines the border based on the administrative boundary between the two entities as of the time of dissolution of the USSR. A description and a map of the border are provided as part of the agreement. A joint commission is formed for the purpose of demarcation of the border on the terrain. The relations associated with the operation of the infrastructure facilities crossed by the border or coinciding with it as well as biological resource conservation, water-use and environmental protection are regulated by separate agreements

Federal Law No. 165-FZ June 27, 2011 on the Ratification of Protocol No. 5 between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Armenia on Amending the Agreement between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Armenia on the Russian Military Base on the Territory of the Republic of Armenia of March 16, 1995

Ratifies Protocol No. 5 concerning the Russian military base in Armenia deemed a guarantor of its security. Russia will provide assistance to Armenia in terms of delivering up-to-date and compatible armaments and materiel. The effective term of the agreement is extended from 25 to 49 years with automatic extension every five years, unless a party thereto announces its intent to terminate it.

Federal Law No. 164-FZ of June 27, 2011 on the Ratification of the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants

Said convention signed by Russia on May 22, 2002 is ratified. It fosters switch to technologies minimising or precluding the deliberate manufacture of such pollutants and assists in liquidation of stockpiled materials, waste and equipment containing such substances, imposition of a ban on the production thereof and search for safe substitutes. The convention provides a non-exhaustive list of persistent organic pollutants and regulates the handling of such substances. The ratification is done with clauses according to which any amendment will require ratification, adoption, approval or accession to become effective for Russia. In respect of any dispute concerning the construction or application of the convention Russia recognises an arbitration tribunal and also referral of the dispute to the International Court as a compulsory measure for any party having such undertaking.

Federal Law No. 163-FZ June 27, 2011 on the Ratification of the European Convention on the Protection of the Archaeological Heritage (Revised)

Said convention, signed on January 16, 1992, is ratified. According to it all remains and items as well as any trace of the human activities of the past, like structures, groups of buildings, developed areas and the surroundings thereof on the surface or under water are deemed pieces of archaeological heritage. Each party to the convention undertakes to create a legal system conducive to protecting the heritage, preventing illegal excavations etc. and to provide funding for archaeological exploration.

Federal Law No. 162-FZ of June 27, 2011 on Amending Some Legislative Acts of the Russian Federation in Connection with the Adoption of the Federal Law on the National Payment System

For instance, the minimum of 18 million roubles of charter capital is set for a newly registered non-banking lending institution that seeks a licence to remit money without opening a bank account. Organisations and individual entrepreneurs have the duty to inform tax bodies of the occurrence or termination of the right of using corporate electronic payment facilities for money remittance. A procedure is provided for collecting compulsory charges at the expense of electronic money on instructions of a tax body sent to the bank. Amendments to the Law on the Insolvency (Bankruptcy) of Credit Organisations prohibit the deeming as invalid transactions of a participant in, or of a settlement centre of, the payment system or of a central clearing counterparty. Amendments to the Law on Countering the Legalisation of Incomes Received through Crime (Money Laundering) make it possible not to identify natural persons when money is remitted without the opening of a bank account, provided the sum does not exceed 15,000 roubles. Amendments to the Law on the Central Bank of the Russian Federation establish the powers of that bank in respect of the national payment system.

Federal Law No. 161-FZ of June 27, 2011 on the National Payment System

Establishes a legal and organisational foundation for a national payment system and an operating procedure for the operation of payment system agents as well as provisions governing the organisation and operation of payment systems and supervision in this field. The law defines the roles of money remittance operators (the Central Bank of the Russian Federation, lending institutions and Vneshekonombank), bank payment agents (subagents), federal postal communication organisations, payment agents, payment system operators, and clearing centres and settlement centres. Rules are provided for electronic money remittance. Individuals are permitted to use non-personified electronic payment facilities, i.e. no client identification will be carried out as required by the law on countering money laundering, unless the balance at any time exceeds 15,000 roubles and the monthly sum total of remittance exceeds 40,000 roubles. For personified and also corporate electronic payment facilities the balance at any time shall not exceed 100,000 roubles. An organisation willing to become a payment system operator should seek a registration certificate from the Central Bank of the Russian Federation, having filed relevant documents. The Central Bank of the Russian Federation is responsible for supervision and monitoring in the national payment system. The law enters into force upon the expiry of 90 days after its official publication, save the provisions having other effective dates.

Federal Law No. 160-FZ of June 27, 2011 on Amending the Law of the Russian Federation on Education

Defines the legal status of integrated curricula for secondary vocational education in the field of the arts. Both general (basic or full) and secondary vocational education are provided within the framework of such curricula. Enrolment for said curricula is allowed to persons having primary general education background who have passed a creative selection conducted in the procedure established by the Ministry of Culture of the Russian Federation by agreement with the Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian Federation.

Federal Law No. 159-FZ of June 27 2011 on Amending Articles 73 and 81 of the Criminal Execution Code of the Russian Federation

Generally, convicts serve sentences in a penitentiary institution within the region where they have resided or have been convicted. However, the law establishes a list of the crimes for which convicts are sent to locations designated by the federal body in charge of the criminal penitentiary system -- participation in an illegal armed formation, the organisation of an extremist community and the activity of an extremist organisation. Grounds are provided for relocating a prisoner from one penitentiary institution to another, including diseases, personal safety etc.

Federal Law No. 158-FZ of June 27, 2011 on Amending Article 18.1 of the Federal Law on the State Corporation "Rostekhnologii"

The term for transferring the property contribution of the Russian Federation to Rostekhnologii is extended. The contribution is made up of the federally-owned shares of the public joint-stock companies formed as the result of transformation and privatisation of federal state unitary enterprises. All in all 442 organisations would have been reformed by 2012. However, certain problems have occurred, like the lack of the necessary technical documentation and right-establishing documents for assets etc. Accordingly, the term for resolving the problems is extended until March 31, 2013.

Federal Law No. 157-FZ of June 27, 2011 on Amending Article 26.13 of the Federal Law on the General Principles of Organisation of Legislative (Representative) and Executive Governmental Bodies of the Subjects of the Russian Federation

These amendments bring that federal law in line with the Budget Code of the Russian Federation. Before that, a public hearing was to be held in respect of a draft regional budget and a report on the implementation thereof. Since the code does not include the notion "draft annual report on the implementation of a budget" the legislative (representative) bodies of the region will consider and confirm the report proper. So, the subject matter of a public hearing will be a draft regional budget and a report -- rather than a draft report -- on the implementation of a budget.

Federal Law No. 156-FZ of June 27, 2011 on Amending the Federal Law on State Fingerprint Registration in the Russian Federation and Article 6 of the Federal Law on Departmental Security Guards in Respect of Issues of Compulsory State Fingerprint Registration

Now, more categories of individuals are subject to compulsory fingerprinting. They include the departmental security personnel and the staff of certain legal entities who record, store, carry and use weapons. Fingerprinting in respect of them will be done by internal affairs bodies and such data will be preserved until these persons reach 80 years of age.

Federal Law No. 155-FZ of June 27, 2011 on Amending Article 37 of the Federal Law on the State Civil Service in the Russian Federation

Provides a new ground for dismissing a state employee on the employer's initiative -- absence for over four months in a row due to temporary disability, including maternity. For some diseases the legislation may set a longer term of retaining a job. A state employee will not be dismissed if his disability is due to an on-the-job injury or occupational disease.

Federal Law No. 154-FZ of June 27, 2011 on the Formation and Abolition of Some District (City) Courts of Murmansk Region

Certain small-staff courts have been abolished and larger ones have been created in their place.

Federal Law No. 153-FZ of June 27, 2011 on the Denunciation of the European Convention on the Protection of the Archaeological Heritage

Said convention of 1969 to which the USSR acceded in 1990 has been denounced by Russia. The reason for it is that on January 16, 1992 the European Convention on the Protection of the Archaeological Heritage (Revised) was signed in Valletta. Simultaneously with the ratification thereof the 1969 convention is to be denounced.

Federal Law No. 152-FZ of June 27, 2011 on the Ratification of the Agreement on the Uniform Principles and Rules of Technical Regulation in the Republic of Belarus, the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Russian Federation

Said agreement has been ratified. It envisages that a uniform list of the products subject to compulsory Customs Union requirements is to be prepared. Technical regulations of the Customs Union as documents having direct effect on the territory of the Customs Union will be elaborated only for the products included in the list. Similar documents issued by the Eurasian Economic Community will prevail over the technical regulations of the Customs Union. Given the conformity of a product with technical regulations, the product will be allowed by the member states to circulate on their territories without additional requirements or conformity procedures.

Federal Law No. 151-FZ of June 27, 2011 on the Abolition of Some District Courts of Chukotka Autonomous Okrug

Due to their small size come courts are abolished since criminal cases on grave and especially grave crimes are to be heard by a panel of three judges and such courts were unable to meet that requirement.

Federal Law No. 150-FZ of June 27, 2011 on the Abolition of Novoderevenskiy District Court of Ryazan Region

A small-sized court is abolished since it could not meet the requirements set out in the legislation.

Federal Law No. 149-FZ of June 27, 2011 on the Abolition of Kurumkanskiy District Court of the Republic of Buryatia

A small-sized court is abolished since it could not meet the requirements set out in the legislation.

Federal Law No. 148-FZ of June 27, 2011 on the Abolition of Some District Courts of the Republic of Kalmykia

Three district courts have been abolished and the matters within their jurisdiction referred to the jurisdiction of other district courts.

Order of the Ministry of Economic Development of the Russian Federation No. 175 of April 18, 2011 on Endorsing the Methodology of an Assessment of the Financial State of a Person Concerned Aimed at Finding Signs of the Person's Insolvency (Bankruptcy) when That Person Pays a Tax on One-off Basis

The order deals with cases when a deferment or an instalment repayment schedule is granted to a person/entity for the payment of a tax. A ground for it is a threat of insolvency (bankruptcy) due to one-off payment of the tax. A methodology is provided for a tax body to asses the financial state of the person/entity -- based on financial statements and information published in accordance with the legislation on insolvency (bankruptcy) etc.

Decision of the Plenary Meeting of the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation No. 11 of June 28, 2011 on Judicial Practices in Criminal Cases of Extremist Crimes

Recommendations are provided for hearing cases of extremist crimes. Motive is the first thing to be proven in such cases. Once it is proven, a crime against life and health cannot qualify as having another motive or purpose. Crimes committed due to political, ideological, race, ethnical or religious hatred or animosity ought to be separated from those based on personal inimical relations. The meaning of "public calls for extremist acts" and of "actions aimed at inciting hatred or animosity" is explained and it is stated that they are punishable under criminal law if take place in public or in the mass media. It is reminded that according to international agreements criticisms in the mass media in respect of officials including professional politicians, their actions and convictions per se are not to be deemed in all cases as aimed at denigrating human dignity and therefore inciting hatred or animosity.

Decision of the Plenary Meeting of the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation No. 10 of June 28, 2011 on Endorsing the Procedure Rules of the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation

The structure of the Supreme Court is modified. It includes the Plenary Meeting, Presidium, College of Appeals, Judicial Colleges for Administrative, Civil and Criminal Cases and Military College. For instance, the College of Appeals includes its chairman and members being judges of the Supreme Court. They are endorsed by the Federation Council on a proposal of the President of the Russian Federation based on a representation by Chairman of the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation, given a positive statement of the Higher Qualification College of Judges of the Russian Federation. As an appellate court it hears the civil and administrative cases in respect of which decisions have been issued by Judicial Colleges for Civil and Administrative Cases and the Military College of the Supreme Court as first instance courts. Until January 1, 2012 the functions of the College of Appeals shall be carried out by the Cassation College of the Supreme Court.

Order of the Federal Tax Service No. MMV-7-3/368@ of June 14, 2011 on Amending Order of the Federal Tax Service No. MMV-7-3/515@ of October 25, 2010 on Endorsing the Procedure for a Bank to Notify a Tax Body That a Banker's Guarantee Has Been Issued

Effective July 1, 2011, advance payment is introduced for the excise tax on alcohol products and alcohol-containing products. Instead of advance payment producers may present a banker's guarantee to the tax body of registration. The bank must notify that tax body about the issuance of the guarantee on the next day.

Order of the Federal Tax Service No. MMV-7-3/367@ of June 14, 2011 on Endorsing the Forms of, and the Formats of Presentation of, a Notice of Advance Payment of the Excise Tax on Alcohol Products and/or Alcohol-Containing Products and a Notice of Exemption from the Duty to Make Advance Payment of the Excise Tax on Alcohol Products and/or Alcohol-Containing Products

It is explained how notices of advance payment of said excise tax are to be filed and how the producers of alcohol and alcohol-containing products may provide a banker's guarantee and a relevant notice is filed with a tax body. The order enters into force as of July 1, 2011.