French investigators on Thursday questioned presidential candidate Edouard Philippe, a former prime minister, in a case of alleged embezzlement, sources close to the case told AFP.

Two investigating magistrates handling allegations of misuse of public funds, favouritism and harassment designated Philippe an “assisted witness” in the affair — a less serious status than being placed under formal investigation.

The case is linked to his position as mayor of the northern port city of Le Havre.

Asked about the status of assisted witness, his lawyer, Emmanuel Marsigny, told AFP:  “Edouard Philippe welcomes this favourable decision, which confirms that he has done nothing wrong in this matter.”

Philippe, who was prime minister from 2017 to 2020, has previously rejected all the accusations against him.

Philippe is a candidate in next year’s presidential election for the centre-right Horizons party. He currently trails far-right and far-left rivals in opinion polls.

AFP