French environment chief denies sexual misconduct claims

PARIS – President Emmanuel Macron's environment minister is vigorously denying reports that two women accused him of sexual misconduct.

Nicolas Hulot, a popular former TV star, came near to tears talking on BFM television Thursday about how the allegations are devastating his family and putting him in a "crazy rage."

French media say magazine Ebdo is expected to publish an investigative report on accusations of misconduct by Hulot earlier in his career.

Hulot acknowledged on BFM that a woman had filed a legal complaint against him in 2008 for alleged misconduct in 1997. Hulot said the case was dropped for lack of evidence, and gave no details.

He also denied allegations he paid off another woman who accused him of sexual wrongdoing.

Prime Minister Edouard Philippe offered his support for Hulot, who said he does not plan to resign.