Story highlights Inquiry comes as paper alleges corruption involving Penelope Fillon and adult children

François and Penelope Fillon have denied allegations, but scandal hurts his campaign

Paris (CNN) A leading contender to be president of France is fighting to save his campaign after new allegations of corruption centered on his wife and children.

The investigative newspaper Le Canard Enchainé published allegations Wednesday that François Fillon's wife, Penelope, and two of his adult children were given no-show jobs that earned them nearly 1 million euros ($1.08 million).

French prosecutors have already begun an investigation and questioned the couple this week. Both have denied the allegations. No one has been charged.

It's the second time in two weeks Le Canard Enchainé accused Penelope Fillon of being paid for a job she wasn't doing.

Last week, the paper reported she had been paid 500,000 euros (about $540,000) over eight years for work as a parliamentary assistant. According to the newspaper there is no evidence the work was ever carried out.

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