Chirac Allies on Trial Over Alleged Paris Vote-rigging

Allies of President Jacques Chirac yesterday went on trial over alleged vote-rigging in Paris while he was mayor.

Fifteen politicians and officials are accused of putting 327 phantom voters on the electoral register ahead of a 1989 municipal election that Mr Chirac's conservative party won. The case is one of a number linked to Paris town hall that have emerged during his presidency.

As president he is immune from prosecution. He is seeking to make a former adviser chief Paris prosecutor, leading opponents to complain he is trying to avoid investigation when he steps down.