Ex-French PM says faces questioning in smear case

PARIS, July 10 (Reuters) Former French Prime Minister Dominique de Villepin said today judges had called him in for questioning in a political smear scandal and added that he could be placed under official investigation in the case.

French judges searched Villepin's house and offices last week as they investigated allegations that he unlawfully tried to wreck Nicolas Sarkozy's presidential ambitions.

Villepin, who left office in May, said in a statement he had been summoned for questioning in the so-called Clearstream scandal at the end of July.

He denied any wrongdoing in the case, saying he had acted in accordance with his ministerial duties.

Being placed under official investigation by judges often leads to a trial in France, but does not imply guilt.

REUTERS AM ND1616