Marine Le Pen, the leader of France’s far-right Front National, has been placed under formal investigation over allegations that her party illegally claimed millions of euros from the European parliament to pay for France-based staff. Le Pen’s lawyer said she had been summoned by investigating magistrates in Paris and “as expected” had been placed under formal investigation for breach of trust. She will appeal against the decision. Under French law, being put under formal investigation means there is “serious or consistent evidence” that points to probable involvement in a crime. It is a step towards a trial, though ... (full story)