French fishermen attack British ships in scallop row
French fishermen's have been accused of endangering the lives of British sailors with smoke bombs, rocks and other projectiles in a row over scallops.
Around 40 French boats are claimed to have chased five British vessels off the Normandy coast, prompting UK fishermen to call on the Royal Navy for protection.
Jim Portus, chief executive of the South Western Fish Producers Organisation, said: "They are endangering life at sea by being unprofessional.
"The French might look like heroes to the French coastal communities but it's really awful to put other mariners in danger."
The row started because UK boats were fishing in the Baie de Seine waters for scallops when French fishermen are only allowed to harvest scallops between 1 October and 15 May.
French fishermen have accused the British of depleting stocks and want them to have the same ban.
Tensions have been present between British and French fishermen for around 15 years over the matter.
"We are aware of reports of aggression directed towards UK fishing vessels in an area of the English Channel not under UK control. These vessels were operating in an area they are legally entitled to fish," a government spokesperson said.
“The safety of the UK fleet is our highest priority, and we will continue to monitor the presence and activities of vessels in the area. We are in contact with industry and the French administration to encourage meaningful dialogue and prevent further incidents from occurring,” the spokesperson added.