LONDON — An MP has been suspended from the U.K.’s governing Labour Party after video footage appeared to show him punching a man repeatedly.
CCTV footage obtained by MailOnline appears to show Amesbury physically attack a member of the public. The man then falls to the ground and is repeatedly punched.
The altercation occurred early Saturday morning. Cheshire Police were called to reports of an attack, and confirmed in a statement that a 55-year-old man had been voluntarily interviewed under caution. He has “since been released pending further inquiries,” the force said.
A Labour spokesperson said Amesbury’s party membership has been “administratively suspended” as the MP assists police with their inquiries.
In a statement released Saturday, Amesbury 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 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.”
Cabinet Office Minister Pat McFadden refused to comment on the story when pressed Monday. “There is a police investigation — I think it’s important that that runs its course,” he told Sky News.
Amesbury has been an MP since 2017, first for Weaver Vale and then Runcorn and Helsby since July’s general election. He currently enjoys a majority of nearly 15,000 in his seat, with Nigel Farage’s Reform UK coming second at the election. Farage’s party has called on Amesbury to resign and trigger a by-election.
