Labour leader makes '˜Bank of the North' pledge to create 100,000 jobs in region during Sunderland visit

Mr Corbyn, currently facing a challenge from Owen Smith for control of the party, insists the new jobs would be well-paid and secure.

He was due to deliver the message at a rally in Sunderland’s Keel Square at midday.

He said: “Under my leadership, a Labour Government will create a ‘Bank of the North’ so that no community in the North is left behind.”

“This would help to deliver infrastructure, manufacturing and new industries backed up by a publicly-owned National Investment Bank and regional banks.”

“Our plan is to build a high skilled, high tech, low carbon economy which has the potential to unlock 100,000 additional secure jobs across the North East.”

The rally came after Mr Corbyn received the backing of the Unison union in the leadership contest.

The union’s Labour Link Committee made the decision following discussions at regional and national level, and a consultation of members affiliated to the Labour Party.