State Duma passed the chapter on third reading along with amendments to other by-laws. Under new law a single tax is to be imposed on mining operations instead of excise, royalty and payments to restore raw base. Tax rate on ferrous metals is 4.8%, coil - 4%, peat - 4%, precious metals (excl. gold) - 6.5%, gold - 6%, natural diamonds, gemstones and semiprecious stones - 8%, non-ferrous metals - 8%, natural gas and oil - 16.5%.