British MP accuses French navy of intimidation after shots fired near fishing boat

Philp stated, “It is extraordinary that the French navy will fire live rounds to defend their waters against a visiting British politician but cannot bear to do anything about stopping illegal Channel crossings.” Small boat crossings are a significant issue in British politics. Philp said on X that the incident felt “like warning shots or attempted intimidation.”

However, a statement issued by the French embassy, quoting French defence officials, denied any intent and said the coastguard vessel Flamant had “conducted a small-arms firing exercise off the coast of Cap Gris-Nez.” The statement added, “The statutory signals required by international standards for this type of firing exercise were displayed, and all safety protocols were followed.” The French defence staff statement continued: “This exercise is unrelated to the presence of a British ship in the area, which was outside the range of the firing. The Flamant was not engaged in an operation to monitor migrant vessels.”

A U.K. official, granted anonymity, told POLITICO they had been assured by French officials that the crew were “conducting a routine training exercise.”