Mike Amesbury probe ‘a matter for police’ after video of row says cupboard member

A Labour frontbencher has said a video appearing to show an MP involved in a town centre row is “a matter for the police”.

Mike Amesbury has not been suspended after a clip seemingly showed him pointing at a man on the ground and saying: “You won’t ever threaten me again, will you?” The 55-year-old MP for Runcorn and Helsby has said he will cooperate with a police investigation.

Asked if Labour was investigating, Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said: “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.”

And she added: “I think that’s the right approach. And of course, the police should now act in whatever way they see fit.” Labour sources said the whip has not been withdrawn.

Cheshire Police confirmed officers were called to reports of an attack in Frodsham at 2.48am and “inquiries are ongoing”. On Saturday, Mr Amesbury said in a social media post: “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 the incident. I will not be making further public comment but will, of course, co-operate 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.”