British MP sentenced to jail for assaulting constituent

Mike Amesbury, an independent MP representing Runcorn and Helsby, has been sentenced to 10 weeks in jail after admitting to assaulting a constituent in Cheshire.

The 55-year-old politician, formerly affiliated with the Labour Party, pleaded guilty to striking 45-year-old Paul Fellows during an altercation in Frodsham in the early hours of October 26. The incident, captured on video, led to Amesbury’s suspension from the Labour Party.

At Chester Magistrates' Court, Deputy Chief Magistrate Tan Ikram described Amesbury’s actions as a "moment of uncontrolled anger," noting that the attack did not end after the first blow.

Despite Amesbury's previously unblemished career in public service, the magistrate ruled that a custodial sentence was necessary as both a punishment and deterrent. An application for bail pending appeal was denied, and security personnel immediately escorted the MP to the holding cells.

His legal representative, Richard Derby, requested reconsideration of bail, but the magistrate briefly returned to court only to dismiss the application. Amesbury was also ordered to pay £200 in compensation to the victim, along with £85 in court costs and a £154 surcharge.

Political Fallout and Potential By-Election

Following the sentencing, the Labour Party reaffirmed its decision to sever ties with Amesbury. A spokesperson stated:

Under UK law, a recall petition may be initiated against an MP who receives a custodial sentence. If at least 10% of voters in Amesbury’s constituency sign the petition, a by-election will be triggered.

Reform UK chairman Zia Yusuf urged Amesbury to resign immediately, stating, "The people of Runcorn deserve better than waiting weeks for a recall petition process."

A further appeal for bail is expected to be heard in the crown court later this week.