The German government’s most senior adviser on antisemitism has warned Jews about the dangers of wearing kippot in public.

Felix Klein told the Funke press group on Saturday: “I cannot advise Jews to wear the kippah everywhere all the time in Germany.” 

He added that he had changed his mind on the subject "compared to previously”.

Antisemitic crimes rose by 20 per cent in Germany last year, according to Interior Ministry data. 

Mr Klein said "the lifting of inhibitions and the uncouthness" of society could be behind the spike in crimes against Jews.

The internet, social media and "constant attacks against our culture of remembrance" may be contributing, he said.

He urged police officers, teachers, and lawyers to receive training to clarify "what is allowed and what is not" when "dealing with antisemitism".

Earlier this year, Claudia Vanoni, Germany's top legal expert on antisemitism, told AFP that the prejudice remained "deeply rooted" in German society.

"Antisemitism has always been here. But I think that recently, it has again become louder, more aggressive and flagrant," said Ms Vanoni.