France's far-right National Front sharpened the attack on the conservative Fillon following damaging new television revelations. On Thursday, the France 2 channel aired newly discovered footage of Fillon's wife Penelope, who was reportedly paid more than 800,000 euros ($860,000) as a parliamentary aide amid suspicions she never worked. In a video message on Friday, Francois Fillon fought back against the scandal, saying "I will stand up and face those in the shadows who attempt to damage me." Le Pen would win the first round if it were held today, according to the latest polls, but would lose in the run-off on May 7. "We give Francois Fillon our complete support because his commitment to France is vital," a group of senior Republicans figures wrote in the rightwing Le Figaro daily on Thursday.

Source: The Local February 03, 2017 20:03 UTC