‘Ironic, isn’t it?’ Ferrari blasts France who can seize UK trawlers but not migrant boats

Nick Ferrari grilled George Eustice as tensions continue to rise between the UK and France over the fishing licence dispute which saw a UK trawler seized by French authorities. But Mr Ferrari noted a strange juxtaposition where France was able to seize and hold a UK trawler but not prevent migrant boats from entering the UK. The radio host remarked it was an "ironic" situation and put Mr Eustice on the spot to answer for the contrasting position. 

Mr Eustice, who was conducting a media round addressing the issues with France, appeared on LBC where he called for calm between the two countries.

After rejecting suggestions from Mr Ferrari that this was the result of Brexit “unravelling”, the Environment Secretary was then quizzed over France’s migrant crossing record.

Mr Ferrari asked: “Doe it strike you as rather ironic the French seem perfectly able to seize these scallop fishing vessels but unable to stop a fleet of rubber dinghies crossing the Channel?”

Mr Eustice froze for a second before responding: “Well, yes that is also an issue, and I know that Priti Patel has been raising this with the French.

"We do want them to play a greater role in trying to stop people from making this very dangerous and perilous journey where sadly so many lose their lives."

A British trawler was diverted to the port of Le Havre where it is detained and under investigation for not having a licence to operate in French waters.

Mr Eustice gave an update on the crew and said they were in good spirits and ok. 

A separate boat was also investigated for the same reason but was set free after it was revealed they did have the correct paperwork.

However, the boat was fined by French authorities because the captain obstructed them from entering. 

Mr Eustice also appeared on Sky News earlier in the day and warned France "two can play at that game" as they continue to threaten the UK with sanctions.

The French Government have threatened to prevent UK boats from landing their fish at French ports with Mr Eustice revealing it could come into place by next Tuesday at the earliest.

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The island of Jersey has also been threatened with blackouts after France said it would stop electricity generated on the mainland from reaching the island.

France's Europe minister, Clement Beaune, told French television the UK only understand the "language of strength" as he defended France's threats.

The French minister went on to say UK boats may be prevented from entering France as the two sides continue to war over the fishing licences.

He added: "Not all French ports will be accessible to British boats anymore.

"Only a few, three or four probably... It will be a very significant limitation in the access to our ports for British boats. And we will have systematic border, veterinary and security controls for British boats."