Following on from St Petersburg passing a gay propaganda law earlier this year, the lower chamber of Russia's parliament has now seen a similar measure introduced.

The law bans the "promotion of homosexuality" to minors and calls for fines up to $15,000.

It would effectively ban gay pride parades, same-sex couples holding hands in public and, rights campaigners have warned, may even ban mention of famous gay Russians.

The European Parliament has already condemned Russia for local governments passing such laws.

We the undersigned demand that Russia abandons plans to advance this gay gag rule.