London mayor Boris Johnson has backed an initiative calling on municipal leaders to tackle antisemitism.

Mr Johnson signed up to Mayors United Against Antisemitism, a scheme launched by Jewish advocacy organisation AJC.

He said: “However it manifests itself, antisemitism is totally unacceptable and can never be justified. In London we have a large and visible Jewish population, which makes a massive contribution to our city’s success, and as mayor I take this issue very seriously.

“It is important for mayors to stand shoulder to shoulder to condemn and challenge antisemitism, which, like all forms of religious or racial discrimination, has no place in our cities.”

The initiative was launched in the United States last year. More than 30 European mayors and 309 mayors and municipal leaders from 47 states across the US have signed the statement, which pledges a commitment to respectful co-existence, and affirms that antisemitism is incompatible with democratic values.

Mr Johnson signed up following an invitation from the Board of Deputies, London Jewish Forum and Community Security Trust.

Board vice-president Marie van der Zyl said: “We applaud Mayor Boris Johnson’s recognition of this worthy initiative. We are heartened by his determination to ensure that the Jewish community in London is able to continue to express itself in all its vibrancy and vitality within a secure environment.”