Moscow - Authorities in Moscow Thursday renewed their opposition to a public demonstration by gays and lesbians during the upcoming final round of the Eurovision Song Contest hosted by the Russian capital.

"Attempts at an unauthorized demonstration by sexual minorities in Moscow will be strictly - but within the framework of the Russian law - suppressed," said a police spokesman.

Deputy Mayor Valeri Vinogradov said there was little hope that the city would allow the demonstration planned for the May 16 Eurovision finale to take place.

"The position of the city in this matter is well-known and will not change," he said.

The televised song contest has for decades been a favourite among homosexuals.