Shadow Foreign Secretary David Lammy has escaped a financial penalty after being caught fishing without a valid licence on London's River Lea.
The Labour MP for Tottenham was approached by Environment Agency bailiffs during a recreational fishing trip but was let off with only a written warning, avoiding the standard £50 fine typically issued for such offences.
The incident, which occurred recently, saw officials exercise discretion despite Lammy's failure to produce the required documentation. Under Environment Agency regulations, all anglers aged 13 or older must possess a valid fishing licence when fishing for salmon, trout, freshwater fish, or eels in England.
A spokesperson for the Environment Agency confirmed: "We can confirm that Mr. Lammy was spoken to by our fisheries officers on the River Lea. After verifying his details, he was issued with a written warning but no fine."
The revelation comes amid ongoing scrutiny of parliamentary behaviour and whether public figures receive preferential treatment. Lammy, a prominent Labour frontbencher, has since obtained the proper documentation.
Annual fishing licences in England cost from £33 for coarse fish and non-migratory trout, rising to £91.50 for a full salmon and sea trout licence. Daily and weekly options are also available for casual anglers.
When contacted for comment, a representative for David Lammy stated: "This was an honest oversight which was immediately rectified. Mr. Lammy has now purchased a licence and continues to enjoy fishing in his spare time."
