LABOUR is warning the rise of machines in a new industrial revolution could worsen poverty and inequality.

The party's shadow business secretary will warn that half of all jobs could be lost to automation and many businesses are not ready to cope with change.

In a speech at the Labour conference in Brighton, Rebecca Long-Bailey is expected to say the pace of change over the past 20 years will "pale in comparison to the next 20".

"Over the last few centuries, we have gradually learnt how to transfer more and more human skills to machines.

"With current technological breakthroughs, we are, for the first time, designing machines that do cognitive and non-routine work. Machines that think.

"But, with some estimates suggesting that half of all jobs could be lost to automation and that few businesses are ready to harness change, it also brings the threat of rising poverty and inequality."

Ms Long-Bailey will tell delegates that only Labour can ensure workers and businesses are equipped for the new industrial era.

She will say: "There is no doubt about what the digital age will look like under the Tories: monopoly profits for the few, and increased exploitation for the many.

"Only Labour will ensure that workers and businesses are equipped to enjoy the prosperity this changing economy can bring."

She will also pledge that Labour will "restore the rights of workers" and "put Britain at the forefront of industrial manufacturing".