The Russian government continues to portray itself as democratic - even though critics say its elections are carefully stage-managed, opposition is barely tolerated and the media is almost fully controlled.

Political leaders point to the parliament or Duma as evidence of democracy in action. But now they will have to think again.

In a rare moment of revelation - a television camera crew has managed to film what really happens inside the parliament when it is time to vote on the burning issues of the day.

Richard Galpin reports.