Britain’s Foreign Secretary David Lammy found himself in hot water after a fishing trip with US Vice President JD Vance, but not due to any diplomatic disagreements. Instead, Lammy was given a written warning by the UK’s Environment Agency for fishing without a license, a requirement for anyone over 13 fishing in freshwater in England and Wales. The incident occurred on August 8 at Lammy’s country estate in Kent, where Vance and his family were invited for a bilateral meeting and a photo opportunity by the river.
A License to Fish
Lammy later purchased a fishing license and reported himself to the Environment Agency, attributing the incident to an “administrative error.” The agency opted for a warning rather than prosecution, considering it Lammy’s first offense and lack of prior fishing infractions. If fined, Lammy could have faced up to £2,500 (approximately $4,000). The Environment Agency emphasized the importance of licenses in funding efforts to improve rivers, lakes, and angling.
Reeling in Diplomacy
Despite the fishing mishap, the meeting between Lammy and Vance seemed to strengthen diplomatic ties, with discussions on international issues and a lighthearted exchange on fishing. Vance even shared “Kentucky-style” fishing tips with Lammy, though they didn’t seem to yield any catches for the foreign secretary. Vance humorously noted the “strain” on their special relationship, joking that while his kids caught fish, Lammy didn’t.
