French JOBSWORTH officials fine the Brits for taking CAMERAS on holiday with them.
Border staff in France blame Brexit for new rules that mean any equipment that could be used “commercially” needs a declaration form.
It means officers are hitting photography enthusiasts with more expensive cameras with fines and confiscations – when they just want to take pictures abroad.
A senior officer even warned Brits need to start treating trips to France like visits to the US – and research the rules EVERY TIME they want to travel there.
An official told The Sun: “It doesn’t matter if you are a tourist or not.
“It’s all about equipment. If you have a large or expensive camera, it is considered “commercial equipment”.
“We fine people – we confiscate their equipment. These have been the rules since Brexit.
Another border guard said: “Britain is no longer in Europe – you have to get used to it.
“It’s like traveling to America now. You have to check all the rules before you go.
“We are very strict on people coming from outside and it is your responsibility to know all the conditions.”
Cameras see holidaymakers routinely questioned in airport and train security scanners following a crackdown on nut import rules.
A Eurostar passenger castigated: “It’s completely ridiculous to stop people just because they have cameras in their bags.
“You can understand the huge TV cameras on all that kind of equipment.
“But how many of us go on vacation with a laptop and a camera? That’s the only reason some people leave – to pursue their passion for photography.
“It all seems political, like they have the power, so they want to use it. It just takes a little common sense.
“They want to make us feel like strangers.”
Under new Brexit rules, passengers must complete C88 customs forms – and obtain permission to ‘import’ or ‘export’ any equipment
In practice, the decision is left to the discretion of border guards – who can decide that a hobbyist’s camera and laptop constitute “commercial equipment”.
They have the power to fine passengers, confiscate equipment or refuse entry to France.
Britons who object are warned they may ‘be detained’ meaning they will miss out on booked transport
A FCDO spokesperson directed us to France travel advice – which states that rules and regulations MUST be checked before entry.
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