Ivan Rybkin is not allowed to feature in pre-election debates from London

Ivan Rybkin, a candidate in the upcoming Russian presidential elections, will not be allowed to take part in televised debates from London. This was announced to a Rosbalt correspondent today by the Central Elections Committee. 'It is not possible to take part in the televised debates from elsewhere unless the candidate is seriously ill or has another valid reason for not attending in person. As far as we are aware, Mr Rybkin has no valid reason for not attending. However, the law stipulates that he can appoint somebody else to participate in the debate on his behalf,' the committee's statement read.

Mr Rybkin set off for London a week ago. After meeting Boris Berezovsky Mr Rybkin announced that he does not intend to return to Russia until the presidential elections take place on March 14. In his opinion, he will be in serious danger if he returns to Russia.