Foreign Secretary David Lammy has avoided prosecution after reporting himself for fishing without a licence while hosting US Vice-President JD Vance at Chevening, Kent, on August 8. The Environment Agency issued a formal warning instead of a fine, which can reach up to £2,500.
A Foreign Office spokesperson described the incident as an “administrative oversight,” noting that Mr Lammy purchased a licence after the trip and referred himself to the agency. The Environment Agency confirmed the warning, stating it aligns with its enforcement policy, which typically issues advice or warnings for first-time, inexperienced offenders.
In 2024/25, the agency prosecuted 765 people for fishing licence breaches, while 1,965 received warning letters and 159 were given advice. Mr Lammy caught no fish during the outing, while Mr Vance and his children landed fish that were returned to the lake.
The Foreign Office said the matter is now closed, adding that Mr Lammy thanked the agency for protecting Britain’s fisheries and has obtained the necessary licences to prevent a recurrence.
