Chris Took marks Holocaust Memorial Day

Tuesday 27th January marks the 70th anniversary of the liberation of the Nazi concentration and death camp Auschwitz-Birkenau, the site of the largest mass murder in history.

Seventy candles will be lit across the UK to mark the occasion and this year's theme is "Keep the memory alive".

Chris Took, Woking Liberal Democrats Parliamentary spokesman stated:

"On Holocaust Memorial Day we share the memory of the millions who have been murdered in the Holocaust and subsequent genocides in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia and Darfur in order to challenge hatred and persecution in the UK today.

"This message is particularly pertinent in light of the recent events in Paris, which saw millions of people taking to the streets in solidarity, in remembrance and in defence of values of freedom, openness and tolerance for those of all faiths or none.

"The commemoration provides an opportunity for everyone to learn lessons from the Holocaust, Nazi persecution and subsequent genocides and apply them to the present day to create a safer, better future.

"Holocaust Memorial Day is therefore an important focal point in the year, it is vital that we remember and reflect upon the horrors of the past, and honour those who survived.

"When all 70 candles are lit throughout the country, it will be a poignant moment of remembrance and a time for us all to ensure we keep the memory alive."