France's Chirac targeted in corruption probe

PARIS, Nov 21 (Reuters) French judges have placed former President Jacques Chirac under formal investigation for embezzlement of public funds during his time as mayor of Paris, his lawyer Jean Veil said today.

Chirac, who lost his immunity from prosecution after leaving office in May, has consistently denied any wrongdoing while he was mayor between 1977-1995.

The case revolves around jobs allegedly handed out to rightist sympathisers by Paris city hall.

REUTERS RJ RK1721