Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick reiterated his and Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s “unshakeable” support for a national Holocaust memorial in Victoria Tower Gardens beside Parliament last night.
Mr Jenrick said: “The National Holocaust Memorial and Education Centre has the complete and unshakeable support of the Prime Minister and I. It is a project of exceptional national significance”.
Referring to rising antisemitism in the UK, he added: “There can be no bystanders in this battle. Everyone in public life, including all local authorities should appreciate the gravity of the present situation and play their part in tackling antisemitism. Ensuring a fitting national memorial to the Holocaust and a place to educate the next generation of the consequences of racism and hatred is absolutely essential”.
On Twitter yesterday, CFI Parliamentary Chairman (Lords) and the UK’s Special Envoy for post-Holocaust Issues, Rt. Hon. Lord Pickles said: “Victoria Tower Gardens is the best location for the Memorial. It’s location will remind visitors that democracy is the final bastion against tyranny, and remind those who work in Parliament that government always has a choice: it can either protect or oppress its citizen”.
The memorial was the central recommendation of former Prime Minister David Cameron’s Holocaust Commission, and has the support of Britain’s five living Prime Ministers and leading representatives of the Muslim, Christian and Jewish faiths.
Mr Jenrick’s statement comes after reports that Westminster Council officers are heading towards recommending the rejection of the memorial and learning centre’s planning application.
