← Back to House of Commons Debates
Holocaust Memorial Bill 2026-01-20
20 January 2026
Lead MP
Miatta Fahnbulleh
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
Community Security
Other Contributors: 13
At a Glance
Miatta Fahnbulleh raised concerns about holocaust memorial bill 2026-01-20 in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government introduced the Holocaust Memorial Bill. She emphasised that the Bill aims to establish a national Holocaust memorial and learning centre, focusing on the education about the Holocaust and antisemitism. The Bill authorises expenditure for construction and operation but does not provide planning powers; those will be sought through a separate statutory process. The Government is committed to clear governance arrangements and ensuring that the learning centre remains focused on its intended purpose.
Julian Lewis
Con
New Forest East
Asked for confirmation that the Bill would remain specific to the Holocaust, avoiding a broader interpretation. He expressed concern about any deviation from this intention.
James Cleverly
Con
Braintree
Welcomed the assurances provided by the Government regarding the purpose of the learning centre and its focus on educating future generations about the Holocaust and antisemitism. He noted that constructive discussions have been held to address concerns raised during the Bill's passage.
Chris Vince
Lab/Co-op
Harlow
Emphasised the importance of the Bill in ensuring remembrance continues after survivors are no longer with us. Highlighted local efforts and interfaith work to combat antisemitism, emphasising education as a key tool.
Chelmsford
Ms Goldman supports the Bill, emphasising the importance of education and remembrance. She mentioned the alarming rise in hate crimes fuelled by political extremism and the need for robust security measures to ensure safety at places of worship. Additionally, she highlighted the importance of timely delivery of the memorial, noting that the project was committed to 11 years ago.
Harpenden and Berkhamsted
Ms Collins spoke about ensuring that Holocaust survivor Kitty Hart-Moxon can see this memorial before she turns 100, highlighting the importance of bridging the gap between generations. She emphasised that the memorial should be a tribute to the work done by survivors like Hart-Moxon.
Edward Leigh
Con
Gainsborough
Sir Edward Leigh opposed the Bill, raising concerns about the lack of consensus among Jewish and local communities regarding the site's suitability. He pointed out issues such as flooding risks, damage to public green spaces, and inadequate plans for managing visitor traffic.
Scott Arthur
Lab
Edinburgh South West
Dr Arthur emphasised the need for leadership in ensuring that a national memorial is established next to the home of democracy in the UK. He argued against further delays, highlighting the importance of celebrating what was done well during World War II and marking what went wrong.
Eastbourne
Welcomes the spirit of the amendment and Bill, praising Dorit Oliver-Wolff's work in Holocaust education. Stresses the importance of education as a defence against hate, highlighting antisemitic attacks in Eastbourne and elsewhere.
Susan Murray
LD
Mid Dunbartonshire
Highlights recent spikes in antisemitic abuse and reports widespread failures to address anti-Jewish discrimination. Emphasises the need for education about Holocaust and antisemitism, stressing that memorialisation must go hand-in-hand with understanding.
Steve Barclay
Con
North East Cambridgeshire
Supports the principle of the Bill but raises concerns over security and design. Urges for transparency regarding potential cost overruns and challenges, particularly in light of ongoing restoration programmes.
Constituency Unspecified
The hon. Member emphasised the ongoing issue of antisemitism, stating that it is prevalent in modern society. She reassured the House about the Government's commitment to making sure Jewish friends feel safe and secure, noting the importance of remembering the Holocaust to prevent future atrocities.
Edward Leigh
Con
Gainsborough
The Father of the House pointed out issues regarding the location of the memorial centre, although he acknowledged extensive consultation during the planning process involving 4,500 responses and a public inquiry. He emphasised that while there have been debates about the site, they are increasingly settled.
Steve Barclay
Con
North East Cambridgeshire
The right hon. Member called for transparency in the process, noting the consensus needed to move forward and the importance of continued engagement with communities and the House to ensure progress on establishing the Holocaust memorial.
Government Response
Reiterated the Government's commitment to establish a national Holocaust memorial and learning centre focusing on education about the Holocaust and antisemitism. Discussed governance arrangements, including clear governing documents for future operations. Acknowledges cross-party support while addressing strongly held views on the Bill's implementation. Commits to moving at pace to conclude construction during survivors' lifetime and stresses the importance of remembering for future generations.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy
About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.