John McDonnell: Labour will 'rescue' EU referendum debate from Tory Project Fear

Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell will today vow to "rescue" the referendum debate from Tory "negativity" and convince Labour voters and young people to reject Brexit.

The Labour MP will say the campaign so far has "brought out the worst in Westminster politics" and is a massive turn-off for voters.

In a major speech, he will say Labour will make the positive case for Remain and a vision of Europe "based on hope and solidarity".

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His intervention is a further sign of the importance being placed on winning over Labour voters by both sides of the debate.

Mr McDonnell will say: "I want to rescue the debate from the negativity and ‘Project Fear’ coming from all sides of the Tory party.

"The referendum resulted from the splits in the Conservative Party and their fear of Ukip, and as a result the debate has degenerated and brought out the worst in Westminster politics.

"People want facts, but more importantly they want to see the progressive alternative - not just negative Tory infighting.

"It's time to turn this debate around, drive out the politics of despair and offer a vision for Britain and Europe, one where we protect workers' rights, tackle tax avoidance, get to grips with climate change and protect our industries like steel. This is a vision of Europe based on hope and solidarity."