UK hits back over French threat to block fishing boats

The U.K. says a threat by France to block British boats from its ports in a dispute over fishing licenses appears to breach international law

LONDON -- The U.K. said Thursday that a threat by France to block British boats from its ports in a dispute over fishing appeared to breach international law, and the government vowed to retaliate if Paris goes ahead with the move.

France announced Wednesday that it will bar British fishing boats from some French ports starting next week if no deal is reached with the U.K. in a dispute over fishing licenses. It also suggested it may restrict energy supplies to the Channel Islands, British Crown dependencies that lie off the coast of France.

“France’s threats are disappointing and disproportionate, and not what we would expect from a close ally and partner,” the U.K. said.

It said the measures “do not appear to be compatible” with the U.K.-EU Brexit withdrawal agreement “and wider international law, and, if carried through, will be met with an appropriate and calibrated response.”