A high-ranking figure in French politics is facing a major crisis after the French government announced it was investigating his links to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Former Culture Minister Jack Lang, 86, has been accused of laundering tax fraud proceeds and resisting pressure to step down despite mounting evidence against him.
Lang denies any wrongdoing and says the allegations are "baseless". He claims that he was introduced to Epstein by US actor-director Woody Allen and had nothing to do with the financier's crimes. However, details from the Epstein files suggest Lang appealed to Epstein for funds or favours on several occasions, including using his private plane.
Lang's daughter Caroline, 64, is also being investigated in connection with her involvement with Epstein. She has stepped down as head of a French film producers' union amid the scandal. The investigation follows the release of millions of documents by the US government that include the names of rich and powerful people who knew or did business with Epstein.
The latest development has left Lang's supporters reeling, but he remains defiant, saying the inquiry "will bring much light on to the accusations that are questioning my probity and my honour". The investigation is a significant blow to France's socialist government, which has been accused of having ties to corrupt figures.
Lang denies any wrongdoing and says the allegations are "baseless". He claims that he was introduced to Epstein by US actor-director Woody Allen and had nothing to do with the financier's crimes. However, details from the Epstein files suggest Lang appealed to Epstein for funds or favours on several occasions, including using his private plane.
Lang's daughter Caroline, 64, is also being investigated in connection with her involvement with Epstein. She has stepped down as head of a French film producers' union amid the scandal. The investigation follows the release of millions of documents by the US government that include the names of rich and powerful people who knew or did business with Epstein.
The latest development has left Lang's supporters reeling, but he remains defiant, saying the inquiry "will bring much light on to the accusations that are questioning my probity and my honour". The investigation is a significant blow to France's socialist government, which has been accused of having ties to corrupt figures.