Convicted MP Mike Amesbury to Resign, Triggering By-Election in Labour Stronghold

The former Labour MP for Runcorn and Helsby steps down after a suspended prison sentence for assault, creating the first by-election test for Keir Starmer's government.

Mike Amesbury, the MP for Runcorn and Helsby, announced his resignation after being convicted of assaulting a constituent in October 2024.
Amesbury received a 10-week prison sentence, later suspended for two years, and was ordered to complete community service, alcohol monitoring, and anger management programs.
His resignation avoids a recall petition and automatically triggers a by-election in a seat Labour won with a 14,696 majority in the 2024 general election.
The by-election will be the first under Prime Minister Keir Starmer, with Nigel Farage's Reform UK seen as a strong contender after recent polling gains.
Amesbury, who has been sitting as an independent MP since his suspension from Labour, expressed regret for his actions and acknowledged the personal and professional fallout.