"The news that Channel 4 is planning to broadcast an interview with the notorious terrorist and murderer Sh.Basayev has encountered an extremely negative reaction in Moscow. We regard this action as another step towards information support of terrorists operating in North Caucasus.



"We are convinced that such an irresponsible step of broadcasting over a wide audience the views and threats of a bandit wanted by Interpol and listed by the UNSC Counter-Terrorism Committee runs counter to the efforts of the international community to fight terrorism.



"The Embassy of the Russian Federation has demanded from the British authorities not to broadcast the interview. The Russian representatives have pointed out the negative consequences that the propaganda of terrorist views can entail."



Response from Channel 4 News:



"Channel 4 News is an extremely responsible news programme, and we are handling this material with extreme care and seriousness. We will ensure our programme meets the strict guidelines that cover the transmission of such material.



"We recognise of course that Shamil Basayev's views will be regarded worldwide as repugnant, but we reject utterly any notion that we are being irresponsible. It is simply not the case that the running of such material can be equated with condoning it. This has also been the case for many other instances where the views of those who advocate terrorism, including Osama bin Laden, have been carried by broadcast media.



"The piece on Channel 4 News tonight will make very clear what kind of man is Shamil Basayev and will set in very clear context his attempted rationale for the killing of children."