With the centre-right political heavyweight’s hairy arm around him in a cafe amid cheering supporters, fresh-faced Beaune aims to close the gap with lawyer and LGBTQ activist Caroline Mécary, who came out on top in the first round of the French legislative elections in the 7 e constituency. Hoping to galvanize voters ahead of the second round, Beaune, 40, has hired former Prime Minister Edouard Philippe to add a star to his show at a campaign event on Wednesday. One of President Emmanuel Macron’s closest advisers, Beaune is among three newly appointed ministers whose prospect of a parliamentary seat, as well as their current ministerial portfolio, are at risk in the parliamentary vote on Sunday. PARIS - Clément Beaune has staked his post as French Minister for Europe.