BREAKING Labour MP Mike Amesbury suspended after CCTV of 3am clash emerges

Cheshire Police are investigating after Labour MP Mike Amesbury was involved in an incident shortly before 3am on Saturday in Frodsham

Labour MP Mike Amesbury has been suspended.

The 55-year-old was seen in a video appearing to strike a man in a 3am altercation on Saturday. Cheshire Police are looking into the incident.

It first came to light when mobile phone footage appeared to show former shadow minister Mr Amesbury standing over a man who had been laid out on the pavement. The MP appeared to be telling him: "You won’t ever threaten me again."

New CCTV recordings seem to show the backbencher throwing a punch at the man - although it's not clear what sparked the incident. The pair's conversation in the lead-up to the punch cannot be made out in the footage.

It goes on to show the man being hit six times. Earlier Labour's Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said it was a "matter for police" when asked if he would be suspended.

She 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Labour sources said this morning, before the footage emerged, that the whip has not been withdrawn.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."