France's Emmanuel Macron accepts the resignation of his Interior Minister

Gerard Collomb had been seen as one of French President Emmanuel Macron's most robust defenders, but has come under increasing pressure. [Courtesy]

France's Emmanuel Macron accepted the resignation of his interior minister, the Elysee Palace said Wednesday, in the latest blow to the president who had earlier refused to allow his loyal ally to quit.

Gerard Collomb, who had been seen as one of Macron's most robust defenders, had indicated two weeks ago that he intended to step down next year, but he came under increasing pressure and made an initial attempt to resign Monday, only to be rebuffed by the president.