Latest news

FIRST FRENCH ISS COMMANDER

Later this month, French astronaut Thomas Pesquet, 43, will be the first French person (and the third European) to be the Commander for the International Space Station. Born in Rouen, Thomas Pesquet will be launched to the ISS on the American space capsule, SpaceX Crew Dragon. Take-off is scheduled for Thursday 22 April and he is expected to be in space for 6 months. Bon voyage Thomas !

SECONDHOME OWNERS

Rules on travel between the UK and France is changing each week, so if you do have to make a trip, it’s wise to contact the embassy and double-check the latest requirements. The rules in France have recently eased, potentially allowing people to travel to their holiday homes. To enter France, you must provide a negative Covid test and a declaration that you don’t have any Covid symptoms. You must then self-isolate for 7 days. However, the UK has stricter rules, which, at the time of print, are about to be reviewed (with the potential to be made stricter). Two governments, handling and deciding two different rules on an ever-changing situation is not an easy task, so please do seek guidance and advice if you have to travel.

VOTES FOR LIFE

As most of you will already know all too well, British citizens living overseas are currently entitled to be registered to vote in UK Parliamentary elections for up to 15 years in the constituency in which they were registered before leaving the UK. After 15 years, your vote is lost. The current UK Government is committed to removing the 15-year rule. In the recent March budget, £2.5 million was committed to ending the 15-year limit, with legislation expected later in 2021.

NEW GOVERNMENT FUNDING FOR ANIMAL WELFARE

Exciting news for animal welfare charities, rescues centres and pet owners with limited budgets! This appears to be a new (means tested) funding project, available since 1 January 2021, offering financial support for repairing / modernizing pet shelters (including horse rescue centres) as well as for sterilisation programmes for abandoned animals and strays. Pet owners who are on a limited budget can also access financial support for veterinary costs. Information on eligibility and how to apply via the following link (do let us know if you are successful and any issues with the application process so we can share with others) : https://agriculture.gouv.fr/f rancerelance-lancement-desmesures-de-soutien-pourlutter-contre-labandon-desanimaux-de-compagnie Information supplied by Jenny Smith, French Wordsmith (see advert in the Language & Advice section).