French President Emmanuel Macron’s environment minister has vigorously denied reports that two women accused him of sexual misconduct.

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

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

Mr Hulot acknowledged on BFM that a woman had filed a legal complaint against him in 2008 for alleged misconduct in 1997.

He said the case was dropped for lack of evidence, and gave no details.

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

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