Politics · 11 August 2026

Nigel Farage says he's run boats since the 1980s after Clarkson row

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage responded to Jeremy Clarkson's claim that his "Operation Fortress" small boats plan is "impossible". The Clarkson's Farm star, in an article for The Times, questioned the logistics of using Royal Navy ships to stop Channel crossings. Mr Farage said on Monday, 10 August, that he has in fact "run boats since the mid 1980s".

By BriefTea Editorial · 11 August 2026 at 7:45

Reported by The Independent · How we write briefs

Get the app

Understand this story

What are Channel crossings? What is 'Operation Fortress'? What is Reform UK? Who is Jeremy Clarkson?

More briefs

PoliticsTreasury officials advise John Healey to tax banks and oil companies more PoliticsBurnham to end indefinite jail terms by parliament's end PoliticsJames Cleverly steps down from the shadow cabinet to campaign for London mayor WorldIcelanders vote on restarting EU membership talks after 13 years PoliticsBurnham returns to parliament with budget, welfare, and cost of living challenges WorldFour EU countries advocate using Russia's frozen 210 billion euros for Ukraine More politics stories → Browse all stories →