Foreign Secretary David Lammy found himself at the centre of an unexpected diplomatic incident during an official visit to Paris, when a routine taxi journey escalated into a heated confrontation over the fare.
The altercation, captured on video and widely shared across social media platforms, shows Britain's top diplomat engaged in a tense exchange with a French taxi driver who allegedly attempted to charge significantly more than the metered fare.
The Parisian Standoff
According to eyewitness accounts, the dispute erupted when Mr Lammy's taxi arrived at its destination near the British ambassador's residence. The driver reportedly demanded €30 (£25) for a journey that should have cost approximately €15 according to the meter.
In the footage, the Foreign Secretary can be heard firmly stating: "I'm not paying 30 euros. I'll pay 15." The situation grew increasingly tense as the driver became more animated, prompting Mr Lammy to declare he would involve the police if necessary.
Political Fallout and Public Reaction
The incident has sparked mixed reactions back in Britain, with some commentators praising the Foreign Secretary for standing his ground against potential overcharging, while others questioned the diplomatic implications of such a public disagreement.
A spokesperson for the Foreign Office later commented: "Like any traveller, the Foreign Secretary expects to pay a fair price for services. He handled the situation appropriately and the matter was resolved amicably."
Broader Context of Taxi Troubles
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges tourists and officials face with taxi pricing in major cities worldwide. Paris has particularly struggled with regulating its taxi industry, with occasional reports of drivers taking advantage of visitors unfamiliar with local rates and routes.
The confrontation occurred during what was otherwise a successful diplomatic mission focused on strengthening Franco-British relations post-Brexit, demonstrating how even the most carefully planned international visits can encounter unexpected obstacles.
