Labour MP Mike Amesbury to 'cooperate with police' after video shows him 'berating man' on the floor
The aftermath of the incident was captured on mobile phone footage
A police investigation has been launched after a video emerged of a Labour MP appearing to threaten a man lying in the road.
Footage of the aftermath of the incident involving Mike Amesbury, who represents Runcorn and Helsby, in Cheshire, began circulating on social media following the incident in the early hours of 26 October.
The video appears to show the 55-year-old berating a man who was lying on the road in Frodsham, Cheshire, before a bystander pushed him away.
Mr Amesbury, who has been a Labour MP since 2017, says he was acting in self defence after being threatened himself.
In a statement he said: "Last night, I was involved in an incident that took place after I felt threatened on the street following an evening out with friends.
"This morning, I contacted Cheshire Police myself to report what happened during this incident.
"I will not be making further public comment but will, of course, cooperate with any inquiries if required by Cheshire Police.
"I remain fully committed to working hard for the people of Runcorn and Helsby, and am determined to remain an open and accessible MP for our community.”
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said the video is “a matter for the police”.
Asked whether the Labour Party was investigating, Ms Phillipson told Sky News’s Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips programme: “Mike Amesbury, who’s the MP in question, has gone forward to the police.
“He is co-operating with any investigation they would want to take forward. It is a matter for the police and we want to allow them to do that work.”
Earlier on Friday 25 October, Mr Amesbury had posted on social media about attending a meeting with local residents about policing and community safety.
In July 2023, a 56-year-old man was convicted of stalking the MP at his constituency office in Frodsham, where prosecutors said he was seen staring through the glass and asked guards about their level of security.
The Labour Party said: “We are aware of an incident that took place last night.
"We understand that Mike Amesbury MP approached Cheshire Police to report what happened this morning himself and that he will cooperate with any inquiries they have.”
Cheshire Police said: “At 2.48am on Saturday 26 October, police were called to reports of an assault in Frodsham.
“A caller reported he had been assaulted by a man in Main Street.
“Enquiries are ongoing.”