Mike Amesbury Urges Labour MPs to Oppose Welfare Cuts After Runcorn Loss

Former Labour MP Mike Amesbury, who resigned after being convicted of assaulting a constituent, has called on Labour backbenchers to oppose government plans for winter fuel and welfare cuts following Reform UK's narrow by-election win in his former Runcorn and Helsby seat. Amesbury acknowledged his own mistakes but argued that Labour's recent electoral setbacks were primarily due to what he described as 'big political mistakes' by the government, particularly regarding benefit reductions. He emphasized that the by-election loss was not solely due to his personal actions but reflected broader voter dissatisfaction with Labour's policies. Amesbury urged Labour MPs to push back against leadership decisions, stating this was necessary for the party's long-term success and to better address the electorate's concerns. He specifically cited winter fuel and disability benefits as key areas where the government should reconsider its approach. Despite his own resignation, Amesbury maintains that the party must listen to voters and adjust its policies if it aims to govern effectively.