Regulators raid EADS's Paris HQ

The pressure seems to be mounting on Mr Forgeard

French regulators have raided the Paris headquarters of Airbus parent firm EADS, increasing the pressure on its embattled joint boss Noel Forgeard.

The officials from France's market watchdog are continuing to probe accusations of insider dealing at EADS centred on Mr Forgeard.

He is accused of selling EADS shares just before delays to the Airbus A380 came to light. He denies wrongdoing.

The French government has appeared to add to pressure on Mr Forgeard to quit.

French Finance Minister Thierry Breton said on Tuesday evening that management changes at EADS are "in the process of being finalised".

'Complicated structure'

The French government has a say in the matter as it is owns a 15% stake in EADS, which is a joint French and German company, with twin headquarters in Paris and Munich.

Mr Forgeard's departure might come as part of a possible streamlining of EADS's twin management structure, which is currently being discussed by the firm's main shareholders.

At present the firm has two chairmen and two chief executives - one each from the French and German sides.

Many commentators say this laborious structure has contributed to the problems at the firm, and French Industry Minister Francois Loos appears to agree.

He described the four-way management split as "complicated", adding that "one could ask oneself" if it was the best solution.

Airbus's forthcoming A380 super jumbo project has been delayed due to wiring problems.