Russian President Vladimir Putin signs bill to lift age limits for top officials

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a law allowing civilian officials he has appointed to remain in their posts past the age of 70 if they choose, a government website said.

Previously, high-ranking officials were not permitted to stay on past 65, an age limit that was then extended to 70.

This limit will no longer apply to officials whose appointment and dismissal is decided by the president, according to the new law, signed on Wednesday by Mr Putin, who is himself 68.

A constitutional amendment…