By Adenike Lucas

John McDonnell, the Shadow Chancellor is to speak to members at the Labour conference  in a few minutes from now. 

Mr McDonnell, a key ally of the Labour leader – often referred to as the ‘people’s Chancellor’- has constantly called for colleagues to unite behind Jeremy Corbyn.

PIC CAP: John McDonnell and Jeremy Corbyn

As conference has refused to have a debate on Brexit, the MP for Hayes and Harlington says he will make it the “number one item” in his keynote conference speech today.

Kate Hoey a leading voice in the campaign for Britain to leave the European Union might be standing to be the chairman of the Brexit select committee.

Mr McDonnell’s speech is expected to hold at the Pullman conference centre at about 12 noon.