The international secretary has been issued a proper warning by the Surroundings Company after reporting himself for fishing with the US vice-president and not using a licence.
David Lammy reported himself to the company after an “administrative oversight” meant he did not get a rod licence whereas internet hosting JD Vance at his grace-and-favour retreat in Chevening, Kent, on 8 August.
Mr Lammy did not catch any fish, though Mr Vance and his youngsters had been extra profitable, and returned their catches to the lake.
On the time, a Overseas Workplace spokesperson mentioned that, after recognising his mistake, Mr Lammy had subsequently bought a licence.
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Mr Lammy did not catch any fish, although Mr Vance was apparently extra profitable. Pic: Reuters
Anglers in England and Wales aged 13 or over will need to have a rod licence to fish for freshwater species. If they don’t have one, they will face a high quality of as much as £2,500.
On Friday, an Surroundings Company spokesperson confirmed Mr Lammy wouldn’t be prosecuted, however had obtained a proper warning.
They mentioned: “Everyone who goes fishing needs a licence to help improve our rivers, lakes and the sport anglers love.
“As Mr Lammy has confirmed, we’ve got issued a warning letter for fishing and not using a licence, in keeping with our enforcement and sanctions coverage.”
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The company’s first response to a breach is often to subject recommendation or a warning, as a substitute of prosecuting, notably in circumstances involving inexperienced anglers with no historical past of fishing and not using a licence.
In 2024/25, 765 individuals had been prosecuted for breaching fishing guidelines, whereas 1,965 obtained warning letters and 159 had been issued with recommendation and steerage.
A Overseas Workplace spokesperson mentioned: “The findings of the Environment Agency draw a line under this matter.
“As quickly because it turned obvious there had been an administrative oversight, the Overseas Secretary wrote to the company so it may contemplate applicable motion and to thank them for his or her work defending Britain’s fisheries.
“He also bought the relevant rod licences to ensure there was no repeat of the situation in the future.”
