France fines British boats as fishing dispute escalates

London (TIP): French authorities fined two British fishing vessels and kept one in port overnight on October 28 amid a worsening dispute over fishing licenses that has stoked tensions following the UK’s departure from the European Union. Britain’s government warned France that it would retaliate if French officials followed through on threats made late on Wednesday to block British boats from some French ports and tighten checks on UK vessels. France also suggested it might restrict energy supplies to the Channel Islands, British Crown dependencies that lie off the coast of France. “We believe these are disappointing and disproportionate, and not what we’d expect from a close ally and partner,” UK Environment Secretary George Eustice told lawmakers. “The measures being threatened do not appear to be compatible with the trade and cooperation agreement or wider international law,” he said. — AP