Deputy President Jacob Zuma, dogged for months by allegations of impropriety regarding the now-notorious arms deal, has until Thursday to answer 35 questions from the Scorpions, The Sunday Times reported.

He is alleged to have tried to solicit R500 000 from a company which benefitted from the arms deal, in return he offered to protect it during subsequent investigations.

Unless his lawyers apply for an extension, the Scorpions must have their answers by Thursday.

President Thabo Mbeki's spokesman Bheki Khumalo said on Sunday that the president had no comment on the report.

Most of the Scorpions' questions relate to Zuma's relationship with his financial adviser Schabir Shaik -- himself under investigation regarding the arms deal -- and Shaik's company Nkobi Holdings.

Shaik, who has been subpoenaed, is to report to the Scorpions' Pretoria office on Tuesday to answer questions regarding his relationship with former transport minister Mac Maharaj and his wife Zarina. The couple are being investigated in connection with their relationship with Shaik and Nkobi holdings, and with over R500 000 in gifts and the R265-million contract to supply credit card-style driver's licences.

Other information asked of Zuma relates to financial benefits he received from various sources, including former president Nelson Mandela, his debts and all expenses he paid on behalf of the African National Congress since 1994.

Zuma has not been asked to write an affidavit, but has been invited to answer the questions in writing. His diaries, official and private travel plans and itineraries since 1995 have also been asked for.

Meanwhile National Director of Public Prosecutions Bulelani Ngcuka has claimed that he is the subject of a smear campaign relating to the Scorpions investigations regarding Zuma and other government officials.

With acknowledgement to Sapa.