French Authorities Seize British Fishing Boat Amid Controversy Over Fishing Rights

Last Updated on July 21, 2025

France has recently seized a British fishing boat, the Lady T, in the English Channel, igniting a wave of criticism and accusations of double standards. The incident occurred just days after UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer faced backlash for a deal that extends EU fishing rights in British waters for an additional 12 years.

Key Takeaways

The Lady T was detained for fishing without a license in French waters.
The seizure has been criticized as a double standard, especially in light of ongoing illegal immigration issues in the Channel.
The incident follows a controversial fishing rights deal between the UK and the EU.

Details of the Incident

The Lady T, a catamaran based in Eastbourne, was intercepted by the French naval ship Pluvier while fishing for whelks without the necessary license. The vessel was taken to Boulogne-sur-Mer, where it remains under detention. The skipper of the Lady T could face severe penalties, including a year in prison and a fine of €75,000 (£63,000).

French authorities have stated that the investigation is being led by Philippe Sabatier, the Boulogne deputy prosecutor. The French Maritime Prefecture confirmed that the operation was part of a broader effort to enforce fishing regulations in the French Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

Political Reactions

The seizure has sparked outrage among British politicians and fishermen. Chris Philp, the Shadow Home Secretary, criticized the French for their perceived inaction regarding illegal immigration while swiftly acting against British fishermen. He stated, "This shows shameful double standards. This year alone, the French have failed to stop 13,000 illegal immigrants crossing the channel. Yet when a UK fishing vessel is in French waters, all of a sudden they are magically able to act."

Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, echoed these sentiments, arguing that the French are allowed to fish in British waters while British fishermen face harsh penalties for minor infractions. He described the situation as "one-way traffic" and expressed concern over the impact on UK fishermen.

Context of the Fishing Rights Deal

The incident comes on the heels of a controversial agreement signed by Prime Minister Starmer, which allows EU fishermen continued access to British waters until 2038. This deal has been labeled a "betrayal of Brexit" by critics, especially since it follows a previous agreement under Boris Johnson that had granted the UK a 25% share of EU fishing quotas.

The timing of the Lady T's seizure, just days after the deal was announced, has led many to question the fairness of the arrangement and the commitment of the UK government to protect its fishing industry.

Conclusion

The seizure of the Lady T highlights ongoing tensions between the UK and France regarding fishing rights and immigration enforcement. As British fishermen face increasing scrutiny and penalties, the government must navigate the complex waters of international agreements and domestic concerns. The situation remains fluid, with potential legal repercussions for the crew of the Lady T and ongoing debates about the future of fishing rights in British waters.