The government will fund at least two more years of the Holocaust Memorial Day with a grant of £1.5m.

Communities Secretary Eric Pickles announced the funding will continue at the national HMD event last night.

He said: “Antisemitism and other forms of bigotry have sadly not yet been relegated to the history books. It’s the responsibility of every one of us to challenge divisive views and discrimination whenever we see them.

“Holocaust Memorial Day is such an important focus for motivating people to do their bit to ensure that the horrendous crimes committed during the Holocaust are remembered and never repeated. This is why we have decided to continue to provide funding to support the crucial work of the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust.”

The department will work with the Trust to create a business plan for their activities over the next two years which is less reliant on government funding.

The event was hosted by actor Simon Callow and memorial candles were lit by him, Mr Pickles and the Chief Rabbi. David Cameron, Ed Miliband and First Minister of Scotland Alex Salmond Parliament and the leaders of the Welsh and North Irish Assemblies were featured in a video message lighting memorial candles.