The UK Environment Agency issued a warning to foreign secretary David Lammy for recreational fishing without a license at the Chevening Estate with US vice president JD Vance on 8/8.
In England and Wales, anyone over the age of 13 requires a license for freshwater fishing. Violators face fines of up to £2,500 (over 3,300 USD).
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Foreign secretary Lammy (right) fishing with vice president Vance at the Chevening Estate on 8/8. Photo: AFP |
Foreign secretary Lammy (right) fishing with vice president Vance at the Chevening Estate on 8/8. Photo: AFP
The Environment Agency opted for a written warning instead of initiating penalty proceedings because Lammy proactively purchased a license and self-reported the violation.
"Everyone who fishes needs a license to help protect our rivers and the sport. Mr. Lammy's case has been handled in accordance with the current enforcement policy, with a warning being issued," the agency stated.
Citing data protection regulations, the agency declined to comment on whether the US vice president had a license while fishing at the Chevening Estate.
A spokesperson for the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office described the incident as an "administrative oversight." Lammy contacted the Environment Agency for guidance, purchased a license to prevent future violations, and expressed gratitude for the agency's environmental protection efforts.
Thanh Danh (ABC, Fox, Guardian)
