Spain: Close Rajoy ally cleared in corruption case

A close political ally of Spain’s prime minister has been cleared of accepting designer suits in return for handing out lucrative contracts.

Francisco Camps and his co-accused Ricardo Costa were both acquitted of corruption charges by a court in the eastern city of Valencia.

Camps, given a rapturous reception by supporters outside, was the long-time head of Valencia’s regional government. Amid the allegations, he quit last July but staunchly denied claims he had received suits worth more than 10,000 euros from businessmen.

The court ruled there was no conclusive evidence that either conservative politician had accepted gifts.

Camps is known as a loyal political partner of Spanish premier Mariano Rajoy who supported him over the corruption accusations.

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