WASHINGTON (AFP) - The White House said on Tuesday there had been no changes to a state visit by Mr Francois Hollande to Washington next month, despite a scandal sparked by the French president's affair with an actress.

The revelations from France have set off speculation as to whether Mr Hollande will be accompanied to Washington by his long-term girlfriend Ms Valerie Trierweiler, who serves as her country's de-facto first lady.

"The president looks forward to seeing President Hollande for the state visit in February," White House spokesman Jay Carney said.

"This is our longest, most enduring alliance, and an important and valued relationship at every level," he said.

Mr Carney however referred all questions about Mr Hollande's delegation to the French government.

Mr Hollande said earlier that the issue of whether Ms Trierweiler accompanies him to Washington would be resolved before he leaves.

Ms Trierweiler, 48, was admitted to hospital hours after glossy magazine Closer published a series of photos showing Mr Hollande and actress Julie Gayet, 41, arriving separately for trysts at a flat close to the presidential Elysee Palace in Paris.