A leading Conservative member has alleged that a French naval vessel fired 17 “live rounds” in an attempt to intimidate him while he was filming in the Channel. However, it was later clarified that the incident was part of a routine training exercise and not directed at him.
Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp reported feeling as though warning shots were being fired during a TV interview as loud bangs were heard in the background. The French authorities explained that the crew was simply engaged in training with handguns at the time.
The former Home Office minister criticized the French response, stating that the live rounds were fired without warning and felt like a form of intimidation. The British government has reached out to French officials for further clarification on the incident.
In a translated statement, the French maritime authorities confirmed that the naval vessel was conducting a scheduled handgun firing exercise, emphasizing that it was unrelated to the presence of the British vessel. Despite this explanation, Philp expressed skepticism, claiming there were no prior notifications about such exercises.
Philp further accused France of not doing enough to prevent dangerous migrant crossings and suggested that the country was resorting to intimidation tactics against those exposing the issue. Recent data from the Home Office shows a decrease in small boat crossings compared to previous years.
Meanwhile, the incident involving the French warship firing near a British vessel occurred amidst discussions about the UK government’s efforts to address small boat crossings in the Channel. The current Home Secretary highlighted a plan aimed at reducing such crossings, with some success noted in lowering overall numbers.
In an agreement reached with France earlier this year, increased patrolling of beaches by additional officers was established to deter crossing attempts, with payment linked to achieving results for the first time.
