I was sort-of referring to the political shenanigans going on as covered in this month's apnea magazine with the FFESSM or whatever they're called?
My friend (who lives in Cannes) who told me about this has said that he has had mates that have been stopped by the police and asked to show their right to spearfish licence!
Nonetheless, I didn't get to go in more than once and I didn't take my gun with me just in case

The weather was favourable to surfers but not to divers
St Jean De Luz, however, I would recommend as a good place, when the weather's right, which is rare
Next time I think either the med coast or further north towards La Rochelle may be better.
Thanks anyway!
Mark.