Tonbridge and Malling MP Tom Tugendhat has echoed calls for the government to accept more refugees from Syria in the name of "common humanity."

The MP said that while the government was dealing with a “very, very difficult situation” he hoped that “it would go further” in relation to the UK accepting more of those fleeing persecution."

But he said fixing a quota or having specific targets was not appropriate, saying that it would be unhelpful.

His comments come as Kent County Council announced it was having to re-open a reception centre in Cranbrook to deal with the growing influx of young child asylum seekers.

The authority says the pressure caused by the on-going increase in numbers means its budget for looking after vulnerable youngsters has meant a £6m budget overspend.

The Prime Minister is reported to be preparing to respond to the crisis by announcing that the UK will set out proposals to resettle many more refugees.

Mr Tugendhat, a former Army reservist who served in Iraq and in Afghanistan with the Marines, took to Twitter to say:

“I have spoken to many in west Kent who want us to do more and I agree with them. Our common humanity demands action at home and abroad.”

In an interview with the KM Group, he said:

“It is one of those moments when you look and cannot walk by on the other side of the road. It is a situation that cries out for compassion. We have a role in giving shelter and we have a really proud history on this and it would sadden me if we did not do something.”

The British people were “fundamentally fair-minded” and recognised the genuine needs of migrants from other parts of the world, he added.

But he emphasised that it was not a case of the UK doing nothing to help those fleeing persecution and in relation to International Aid was contributing more than many other countries.

"We run an incredibly impressive scheme - the vulnerable people's programme - where's those most in need are brought to Britain. We have much to be proud of as a country and a government on our record of helping those most in need and we should remember that as well."

He said refugees who had settled in the UK were often successful, creating their own businesses and contributing to the economy.

“There is a very big difference between those who are playing the system and those that are not. People have recognised that.”