A SOUTHEND MP has backed a Government decision to contribute £2.1million to protect an iconic symbol of the Holocaust.

James Duddridge, MP for Rochford and Southend East confirmed that the Government will contribute the money to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Foundation which is the site of the largest mass murder in human history.

The funding, along with other donations from other countries will help to safeguard the future of the camp.

Mr Duddridge said: "I would encourage as many people as possible to visit the camp.

"It is important for everyone to be able to visit this remarkable place. I encourage schools to contact the Holocaust Educational trust to offer this experience to their students.”