UK pledges 3.4 million dollars for restoration and preservation of Auschwitz memorial

27 May 2011

The British government is to contribute US$ 3.4 million to help preserve the Auschwitz-Birkenau memorial site. The donation to the foundation for the preservation of the former Nazi death camp site will be used for restoration and preservation. “I am determined that the government should take an active approach to preserving the memory of the Holocaust," Foreign Secretary William Hague said. "Auschwitz-Birkenau is a searing reminder of the horrific consequences of intolerance and hatred. It should never be forgotten.

"I am proud that the UK is able to play a part in commemorating the millions of victims who died there, educating future generations of the evils of that period in history and ensuring its preservation for many years to come.” Over 3,000 British students visit Auschwitz-Birkenau each year through the British Holocaust Educational Trust's Lessons from Auschwitz project.

"Just as we collect and preserve the stories of eyewitnesses, it is our collective responsibility to ensure that Auschwitz-Birkenau stands as a perpetual reminder of the pain and destructive force of hate," Communities Secretary Eric Pickles said at the Jewish Museum in London, which he toured together with British Chief Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks and Polish Ambassador Barbara Tuge-Erecinska. "We must ensure that the lessons from the Holocaust are taught today and to future generations.”

More than a million people visit the Auschwitz-Birkenau site each year.
 

Comments

We welcome any comments you may have on this article.

  • Your email address will not be displayed on the website.
  • Comments will be reviewed before posted on the website.

Larry Kelner, 12 months ago

It is so refreshing that the British Government stepped up to this task! They have the thanks of not only the entire Jewish world, but the thanks of all decent people everywhere! To the British Government I SALUTE YOU and again my heartfelt THANK YOU!

amzallag, 12 months ago

its refreshing to see that the british government is pitching in to reveal and preserve this holocoste site considering the past history of britain before during and after ww2

If you are a facebook user you may choose to have the comment appear on your wall.

Comments are moderated and we reserve the right to edit or remove any which are derogatory or offensive.

The WJC is not responsible for the content of any comments.

Button_tweet Button_fb Button_youtube Button_rss

Get Involved

Opinion Poll

Do you think a political solution to the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians will be achieved in the coming years?