'Don't blame immigrants for Britain's economic problems,' Jeremy Corbyn says

'East European builders and technicians did not slash funding for children's centres and libraries,' Labour leader adds

Jeremy Corbyn will make the speech in Birmingham (PA)

Immigrants should not to be held to blame for Britain's economic difficulties, Jeremy Corbyn is warning.

In an address to the Runnymede Trust on Saturday, the Labour leader will say it is “vitally important” to protect Britain's diverse society following the referendum vote to leave the EU.

Speaking in Birmingham, he will say that in “volatile times”, when people feel insecure in their jobs and about the future of the country, there is a tendency to look for people to blame.

“In the wake of the Brexit decision, it is vitally important that we value, celebrate and protect our diverse society,” Mr Corbyn will say.

“Syrian refugees did not trade in credit default swaps and crash the economy.

“East European builders and technicians did not slash funding for children's centres and libraries.

“What we need is leadership that does not stoop to preying on those anxieties and blaming people who look differently, talk a different language or dress differently, for the mess that we're in.”

Mr Corbyn will accuse the Conservatives of pursuing an agenda favouring the elite at the expense of the majority - particularly those in black and Asian communities.

“Under my leadership, a Labour government will commit to eliminate racial inequality in our economy and society,” he will say.

“It's indefensible that in Britain today, if you're black or Asian you are more likely to be living in poverty than if you're white,” he will say.

“Or that young black men have experienced the worst long-term employment and economic outcomes in generations.”

PA