Boris in Holocaust Memorial Day pledge to tackle anti-Semitism ‘head-on’

Anti-Semitism remains an “ever-present concern”, Boris Johnson said as he vowed to tackle the problem head-on.

The Foreign Secretary said in a message to mark Holocaust Memorial Day that the UK was committed to stand with “ourJewish friends and neighbours” in defence of their right to live free from hatred.

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said the theme of this year’s event – How Can Life Go On? – “could not be more apt in these increasingly intolerant times”.

Mr Johnson said: “It is important that survivor stories are heard. And, as time goes by, it becomes ever more important that we listen, learn, remember, and educate future generations about the causes of the Holocaust, in particular anti-Semitism.

“Sadly, this remains an ever-present concern today. We will continue to tackle it head-on wherever it is found and stand with our Jewish friends and neighbours around the world in defence of their right to live free from hatred and prejudice.

“The UK Government is committed to strengthening international collaboration to promote Holocaust education, remembrance and research. We will continue to honour this commitment, not only through our work with international partners, but also with civil society organisations who are dedicated to these efforts.

“Together we can put the lessons into practice and so educate the next generation that anti-Semitic prejudice is consigned to the past.”

Mr Corbyn, who has been forced to confront allegations of anti-Semitism within Labour ranks, said: “Let us remember to never lose our faith and hope for a better world. And redouble our efforts to defeat evil and intolerance.”