Tim Farron, the Liberal Democrat leader, will tell Westminster Synagogue that Labour’s reputation with ethnic minority communities is “in tatters”.
The speech at the synagogue later today will set out the Lib Dems’ attempt to capitalise on what the party asserts is Labour’s unpopularity with ethnic minority groups and the Conservatives’ “lurch to the right”.
Mr Farron will say: “Labour have been taking Britain’s ethnic minority communities for granted for far too long.
“Even before Brexit, it was an open secret that Labour weren’t engaging with certain communities because they felt ethnic minorities would vote for them regardless.
“Ukip might as well take the rest of the election off because the Tories are fighting their campaign for them. Progressive Conservatives need to ask themselves if there is any difference between the Conservative Party and the vile prejudice of Ukip.
“The only opposition to these three Brexit-style parties is the Liberal Democrats. There is a clear choice at this election to keep Britain open, tolerant and united – and that is to vote Liberal Democrat.”
In the past Mr Farron has had to defend his party against accusations of antisemitism, after controversial remarks made by former MPs Jenny Tonge and David Ward. Baroness Tonge now sits in the House of Lords as an independent.
Mr Ward's attempt at re-election to the Bradford East seat he formerly held was blocked by Mr Farron.
