The launch of an investigation into the awarding of contracts by a French mayor wouldn't normally merit headline news - but this mayor is one of the favourites for France's crucial 2027 presidential election.
What has happened?
This week France's national financial crimes unit the Parquet national financier confirmed that a formal judicial investigation will be opened against the mayor of Le Havre, Edouard Philippe, plus two other local officials.
The investigation - into suspicions of embezzlement of public funds, favouritism, unlawful taking of interest and extortion - was ordered earlier this month, the financial prosecutor's office told AFP on Tuesday.
The announcement marks a step up in the enquiry, which has been running since 2023, making it potentially more serious - although no charges have been laid.
