In French politics, graft is a way of life

Political corruption in France is common, and usually – if the politician is at or near the top of the political game – unpunished. Yet the 2017 presidential election may mark something of a revolt against a semi-aristocratic disdain for the public whose tax euros have long been plundered for private or party use.

Francois Fillon, 63, rose steadily through the ranks of the centre right until 2007, when he became prime minister under President Nicolas Sarkozy. He survived there for five years and was seen as a president-in-waiting: experienced, Catholic, with five children by his Welsh wife.