Labour MP Mike Amesbury to ‘co-operate with police’ after reports of assault
Footage that emerged on social media on Saturday appeared to show Mr Amesbury berating a man who was lying on the road.
A Labour MP has said he will “co-operate with any inquiries” police have as officers probe reports of an alleged assault involving the backbencher.
Mike Amesbury said an incident on Saturday had left him feeling “threatened” after footage circulated online appearing to show him berating a man who was lying on the road before a bystander pushed him away.
Cheshire Police confirmed officers were called to reports of an attack in Frodsham at 2.48am and “inquiries are ongoing”.
In a video clip shared on social media, the MP for Runcorn and Helsby appeared to point his finger at the man on the ground and say: “You won’t ever threaten me again, will you?” while someone off-camera shouts at him.
In a statement, Mr Amesbury, 55, said he was “determined to remain an open and accessible MP for our community” and would “co-operate with any inquiries” officers have about the apparent altercation.
“Last night, I was involved in an incident that took place after I felt threatened on the street following an evening out with friends,” he said.
“This morning, I contacted Cheshire Police myself to report what happened during the 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.”
Earlier on Friday, Mr Amesbury had posted on social media about attending a meeting with local residents about policing and community safety.
In July last year, 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.
A Labour spokesperson said the party was aware of the incident on Saturday and “we understand that (Mr Amesbury) approached Cheshire Police to report what happened this morning himself and that he will co-operate with any inquiries they have.”
Cheshire Police said: “At 2.48am on October 26, police were called to reports of an assault in Frodsham.
“A caller reported he had been assaulted by a man in Main Street.
“Inquiries are ongoing.”
