Finchley and Golders Green MP Mike Freer accused of 'politicising' Holocaust memorial bulb planting event

"It is a pity that representatives from across the political spectrum were not invited and currently set up the event politicises what should have been a universally embraced act of remembrance."

He revealed he had sought advice on the ceremony from Rabbi Jeremy Lawrence of Kinloss Synagogue, which is just a few hundred metres from the site, in August.

As well as the planting of 1,500 bulbs, a commemorative plaque bearing the MP's name will also be unveiled on the green during the event, which runs from 11 am to 4pm.

Local communal groups have supplied volunteers to plant the crocii throughout the day.

Mr Freer said he wished to "do something locally" following visits to the children's memorial at Yad Vashem in Jerusalem.

The MP said the date of the event was influenced by negotiations with the council over use of the land, the length of time needed for the order of bulbs to arrive and the best time for planting.

Community leaders from several shuls have been invited to attend the event - which takes place just over one week after the MP Luciana Berger was announced as the Liberal Democrat candidate for the seat.

Mr Freer had first began discussions with Barnet Council over staging the event a year ago.

The JC has contacted the Liberal Democrats for comment.