German steam cleaner maker asks French politicians not to sully its brand

Karcher asserts political neutrality as presidential hopeful calls for pressure-washing criminals out of suburbs

One of the world's leading makers of pressure washers and steam cleaners has formally asked French politicians not to use its name to score political points.

Karcher, a German family-owned company, issued a statement on Tuesday objecting to rightwing presidential candidate Valerie Pecresse taking its brand in vain. It is the latest of several similar complaints it has issued in recent years.