Warsi, a Muslim, said Labour had sought "selfish political advantage" by presiding over a decade of state-driven multiculturalism, which has played on differences.

She said: "It has sent out the message that we're not sharing a society, we're just cohabiting a space. It has led people to retreat into separate cultures rather than reach for a shared community... and their obsession with self-appointed community leaders and crude use of patronage politics has led to communities divided against each other, with people losing that inner instinct of what it is to be British."

A Conservative government would ensure British history was taught properly "so young people know who we are as a nation", and everyone living in Britain would have to speak English, she said.

She added:" Good neighbours look out for each other. That's why we will tackle unacceptable cultural practices, not turn our backs and say it's sensitive and none of our business."