China News Agency, Paris, October 28 (Reporter Li Yang) France has decided to impose sanctions on British fisheries. French officials confirmed on the 28th that British fishing boats have been punished by the French during the inspection.
French Minister of European Affairs Bohn said on the 28th that France will adopt a “zero tolerance” attitude towards the United Kingdom due to the fishery dispute between France and the United Kingdom. He said that before the normal number of fishing permits issued by the United Kingdom to French fishermen is restored, France will prohibit most British fishing boats from entering French ports.
Born also announced that France will conduct systematic inspections of British fishing vessels, including customs, veterinary and maritime safety inspections. In addition, France will also conduct systematic safety inspections on trucks travelling to or arriving from the UK.
Born said that French fishermen have obtained about half of the fishing licenses from the UK, but this is not enough and unacceptable. He warned, “The French side needs to speak with strength, because this seems to be the only thing the British government can understand.”
According to French officials, the relevant sanctions will be officially implemented on November 2. But France seems to be taking action. French Maritime Minister Girardin stated on the 28th that two British fishing boats were punished by the French maritime police during the inspection conducted late at night on the 27th to early morning on the 28th. She pointed out that although the inspection of British ships during the scallop fishing season is a standard procedure, the relevant inspections are carried out in the context of the tightening of the relevant sea areas.
Girardin said that one of the British fishing boats was fishing in French waters without proper permits. The fishing boat and its personnel had been transferred to the French port of Le Havre and were detained by the judicial authorities. The captain of the boat may face criminal offences. Sanctions.
The fisheries dispute between France and the United Kingdom was caused by the issue of fishing rights in the relevant waters after Brexit. British officials have previously refused to issue fishing licenses for most French ships that applied to fish in the waters of British Jersey, which caused strong dissatisfaction in France. France warned that further sanctions may be taken in the future, which may include cutting off Jersey’s electricity supply.
British officials expressed “disappointment” over France’s decision to adopt relevant sanctions. A spokesman for the British Prime Minister’s Office said that if the French sanctions are implemented, the British side “will take appropriate and targeted responses.” (over)
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