British Foreign Secretary Receives Warning for Illegal Fishing

British Foreign Secretary David Lammy received a written warning for fishing without a license during a recent outing with U.S. Vice President JD Vance. The incident occurred at Lammy’s country estate south of London on August 8, 2023, while Vance was vacationing in England with his family.

According to an Environment Agency spokesperson, Lammy’s offense could have resulted in a fine of up to £2,500 (approximately $3,380). However, the agency views such infractions by inexperienced anglers as minor, typically opting to issue warnings rather than penalties. Lammy’s spokesperson referred to the incident as an “administrative oversight,” stating that the Foreign Secretary purchased a fishing license after the fact and voluntarily reported the situation.

During the fishing excursion, Lammy and Vance appeared to enjoy themselves, with Vance sharing what Lammy described as Kentucky-style fishing tips. Despite the lighthearted atmosphere, Lammy did not manage to catch any fish, a fact that Vance humorously noted: “The one strain on the special relationship is that all of my kids caught fish, but the Foreign Secretary did not.”

The Environment Agency did not provide information on whether Vice President Vance held a fishing license, citing data protection regulations. Following the outing, inquiries made to Vance’s office for comment were not immediately answered.

In England and Wales, individuals over the age of 13 are required to possess a license for freshwater fishing. In this context, Lammy’s experience underscores the importance of adhering to regulations, even in recreational settings. The agency confirmed that Lammy’s warning was publicized, highlighting the transparency of the incident.

While the incident may seem trivial, it serves as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with public positions and the importance of compliance with local laws.