Sir Peter Bazalgette said Holocaust denial is being fuelled by social media

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He said: “A small number of MPs and peers, some of whom live locally, have understandably expressed concerns.

But he warned that Holocaust denial “may well grow in the next 20 years, rather than diminish” because of misleading posts on social media.

Sir Peter Bazalgette, chairman of the UK Holocaust Memorial Foundation, said the horrifying stories of survivors remained incredibly powerful.

The infamous German inscription reads 'Work Makes Free' at the main gate of the Auschwitz I extermination camp.

“We are confident that putting the memorial next to Parliament will improve the park amenity.”

Sir Peter added: “If you search for Holocaust denial you’d be astonished at what people bring up.

"There’s a danger that the power of the internet reinforces mutual prejudices and it’s up to all of us to make sure Holocaust denial doesn’t grow.”

Speaking at the launch of a design competition for a new Holocaust Memorial – to be sited next to the Houses of Parliament – Sir Peter, 64, said the project underlines the importance of learning the lessons of history.