Jailed MP Mike Amesbury Faces Recall Petition as Reform UK Eyes By-Election Opportunity

Labour MP Mike Amesbury's imprisonment and continued salary have drawn criticism, while dissatisfaction with Labour policies fuels Reform UK's rising support in Runcorn.

Mike Amesbury, the Labour MP for Runcorn and Helsby, has been sentenced to 10 weeks in prison for assaulting a man in a drunken altercation last October.
Despite his imprisonment, Amesbury will continue to receive his £91,000 annual salary, sparking public and political calls for his immediate resignation.
A recall petition will be triggered if Amesbury's appeal fails, and 10% of his constituents must sign it to initiate a by-election.
Dissatisfaction with Labour's policies, including cuts to the winter fuel allowance and National Insurance changes, has bolstered support for Nigel Farage's Reform UK in the traditionally Labour-leaning constituency.
Reform UK, which came in second in the 2024 general election for the seat, views the potential by-election as a key opportunity to secure its first parliamentary victory.