Explosive Accusations Surround British Foreign Secretary
UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy is at the center of a growing international scandal after a French taxi driver accused him of acting “like a thug” during a heated dispute over a €700 (£600) fare. The row erupted during a lengthy private transfer to an Alpine ski resort, allegedly ending in threats, theft claims, and a criminal investigation now underway in France.
The incident, which took place in April 2025, has drawn widespread media attention after the driver, 40-year-old Nassim Mimun, spoke out from his home in Avignon, sharing images and claims that have since gone viral. While Lammy and his wife Nicola Green firmly deny all wrongdoing, the saga raises questions about diplomatic conduct, travel security, and the responsibilities of high-ranking officials abroad.
The Journey: From Italy to the Alps and Into Controversy
The journey began in Forlì, Italy, and ended nearly six hours later in the French ski resort of Flaine. According to Mimun, he was hired through a private transfer service to transport Lammy and his wife—an established artist and public figure. While part of the €1,550 (£1,305) total fare was covered by the booking service, the remaining €700 (£600) was allegedly expected to be paid directly by the passengers.
Mimun claims that when he presented the final amount, Lammy became “aggressive” and “lost it,” allegedly snatching the receipt out of his hands and refusing to pay. The driver also accused Lammy of acting in a threatening manner, telling MailOnline that the back of his car was left “in a filthy state,” with rubbish strewn across the seats.
Security Breach: A Senior UK Official Travelling Unannounced
In a startling admission, Mimun also said he was not made aware he was transporting one of the UK’s most senior government ministers—a situation he described as a “serious security breach.” Given Lammy’s high-profile role, the lack of official protection or coordination has raised eyebrows among security analysts and Foreign Office insiders.
The incident has prompted further investigation by both French and British authorities. There are ongoing questions as to why Lammy was travelling without a formal diplomatic escort and whether his presence should have been disclosed to the driver and relevant security services.
Theft Allegations: Luggage Dispute Escalates Legal Battle
Adding to the controversy, Mimun has now been officially charged with theft by French prosecutors after he allegedly drove off with the couple’s luggage. Lammy and Green claim the bags were taken without consent and have filed a counter-complaint against the driver.
According to Mimun, the departure was not intentional. He asserts that he went directly to the police station to file a complaint about the unpaid fare, unaware that the luggage was still in the vehicle. He later handed the bags over to police, who confirmed they belonged to Lammy and his wife.
The Foreign Office released a statement confirming the couple has been listed as “victims in this matter,” and emphasized that “the fare was paid in full.” The case is now in the hands of the French judiciary, with a court hearing set for November 3, 2025.
Driver’s Additional Claims: Knife Intimidation Accusation Emerges
Perhaps the most disturbing part of Mimun’s claims is the allegation that he showed Nicola Green a knife during the row. According to the driver, he did open a center compartment between the seats—but insists he did not threaten Green or intentionally display a weapon.
This claim, if proven, could significantly alter the trajectory of the case. While French authorities are investigating the full extent of the confrontation, the Foreign Office has remained tight-lipped on the specifics, citing ongoing legal proceedings.
Lammy’s Response: “Baseless and Offensive Allegations”
David Lammy has strongly denied all accusations, describing them as “completely false and defamatory.” A spokesperson for the Foreign Secretary reiterated that the fare was paid and that Mimun’s claims are being legally contested.
“Mr. Lammy and Ms. Green categorically deny the accusations of aggression or improper conduct. They are cooperating fully with French authorities and stand by their account of the incident,” the statement read.
The couple is reportedly pursuing legal action against the driver for theft and defamation.
Public Reaction: Outrage, Division, and a Diplomatic Headache
Reaction to the story has been polarizing. Critics of Lammy have seized on the incident as evidence of arrogance and entitlement among political elites. Supporters argue that the timing and tone of the accusations appear orchestrated, and that the allegations should not be accepted without due process.
Social media has erupted with debate, with hashtags like #LammyTaxiRow and #AlpineScandal trending across platforms in the UK and France. Calls for greater transparency in the conduct of government officials abroad have intensified, and questions have been raised over the use of public or private funds for luxury transfers.
Legal and Political Implications: What Happens Next?
With a court date looming and reputational risks mounting, the outcome of this case could have serious implications for David Lammy’s future. As a potential leadership contender within the Labour Party, any formal finding of misconduct—even abroad—could cast a shadow over his political ambitions.
For now, both parties remain locked in legal proceedings, and the full details of what transpired on that six-hour Alpine ride remain the subject of intense scrutiny.
FAQs
1. What is David Lammy accused of?
A French taxi driver alleges that Lammy acted aggressively, refused to pay a €700 fare, and left his vehicle in disarray during a private transfer in April 2025.
2. Did David Lammy pay the fare?
According to Lammy and the Foreign Office, the fare was paid in full. They deny all allegations of wrongdoing.
3. What charges has the driver faced?
The driver, Nassim Mimun, has been charged with theft after allegedly driving off with the couple’s luggage. A court hearing is scheduled for November 2025.
4. Was Lammy travelling without security?
Yes, the driver claims he was not informed of the passenger’s government position, raising concerns over potential security lapses.
5. What happens next in the case?
Legal proceedings are ongoing. Both sides have filed complaints, and French authorities are investigating the incident. The case will go to court later this year.
