After CCTV evidence surfaced seemingly showing Labour MP Mike Amesbury knocking a guy to the ground, Amesbury was suspended from the party and had his whip taken away. The Runcorn and Helsby MP is seen in the Daily Mail clip still striking the man as he falls on the street, igniting indignation and demands for responsibility.
According to Cheshire Police, a 55-year-old man has been voluntarily interviewed under caution over the incident. They have subsequently released him pending further investigation. Amesbury has been asked for comments but has not yet made public responses.
What Other Videos of the Incident Have Surfaced?
This event coincides with the release of another video on X showing Amesbury yelling and swearing at the man lying in the street in Frodsham, Cheshire. According to a Labour Party official, “Mike Amesbury MP has been helping Cheshire Police with their investigations following an incident on Friday night. The Labour Party has administratively suspended Mr. Amesbury’s membership of the Labour Party pending an inquiry as these investigations are still underway. He also lost the Labour whip in the House of Commons, which signified a significant loss of support for his party.
What Led to the Altercation Captured on Film?
The events preceding the fight caught on camera remain unknown. In the first film, Amesbury is audible, yelling, “You won’t threaten the MP ever again, will you?” This strong language raises questions regarding the background of the incident and the contacts that preceded it.
In its statement, Cheshire Police said, “Police were called to claims of an assault in Frodsham. A caller claimed a man on Main Street had attacked him. Ask questions constantly. This shows that law enforcement is actively looking at the events surrounding the incident and is treating the subject seriously.
How Has Amesbury Responded to the Incident?
Amesbury addressed the matter in a comment on his Facebook page: “Last night, I was involved in an incident after I felt intimidated during an evening out with friends. This morning, I reported what had happened to Cheshire Police. Although I will not speak publicly going forward, I will naturally assist Cheshire Police with any questions. This comment underlines his intention to help the police inquiry and his admission of the occurrence.
What Are the Calls for Accountability?
Emphasizing the need for a thorough inquiry into the matter, a Conservative Party official also mentioned Amesbury “has questions to answer about his actions.” Furthermore, a Reform UK spokesman—whose candidate finished second behind Amesbury in the July general election—has urged him to quit his post.
Former Conservative MP Dehenna Davison said of the CCTV footage, “horrendous,” as her father sadly passed from a single punch. On X, she said, “The Police are investigating; I am sure the whole truth will surface shortly. Working with One Punch UK, I have spent years increasing awareness of the risks a single punch may bring. Whatever the basis of the conflict, such brutality is never and should never be justified.
What Is the Background of Amesbury's Political Career?
From 2017 until 2024, Mike Amesbury was Cheshire’s shadow minister and Labour MP. With a majority of 14,696 votes, he gained his constituency in the July general election, providing notable support from his voters. Still, the current circumstances could compromise his political prospects.
In a concerning parallel, a 56-year-old man was found guilty of stalking and harassing Amesbury at his constituency office and in town, therefore underscoring the complexity and difficulties of the public life of the MP.
