Francois Fillon is to be the conservative candidate in next year’s French presidential election after his rival Alain Juppe admitted defeat.

With virtually all the results counted, Fillon won Sunday’s run-off with nearly 67 percent of the vote.

Fillon promised to build a fairer society, saying France wants “truth and it wants action”.

He is likely to face a Socialist candidate and the far-right’s Marine Le Pen in next April’s election.

Juppe, the more moderate candidate, congratulated Fillon on his “large victory” and pledged to support him in his bid to become president.

BDST: 0844 HRS, NOV 28, 2016
SR