Yvette Cooper, Shadow Home Secretary, said:

“The Syrian crisis is becoming increasingly desperate with millions of people displaced, tortured and fleeing violence on an unimaginable scale. Other countries are doing their bit to help, and Britain must not turn its back.

"The UK is almost alone of major countries in refusing to assist the UNHCR in its efforts to provide sanctuary to the most vulnerable refugees in the region.

"Most of the refugees are being given sanctuary in Turkey and Lebanon. But the UN has asked other countries to help those who are most vulnerable of all - including those that have suffered torture, rape and persecution and who are struggling to survive in the refugee camps.

"Western European countries are only being asked to help some hundreds of the most vulnerable refugees - and to help those who have family connections in Europe who can help and support them too.

"France, Germany, Austria, Finland, Holland, Ireland and others have all agreed to do their bit. People will feel ashamed that our government is one of the only ones to refuse to help. It is immoral to stand aside when countries as far afield as Canada and Australia are willing to help.

"The UK Government and charities supported by the British people have rightly provided significant aid to the region. But Ministers need to rethink their blanket refusal to help those that need to leave the region even temporarily.

"Our country has responded to calls in the past and rightly has a reputation for helping those fleeing persecution built up over hundreds of years. We cannot and should not turn our backs on survivors of torture, and those at greatest risk.”

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