THE leader of Hampshire County Council this week said that a “co-ordinated and strategic approach” was needed to respond to the refugee crisis.

Roy Perry said the county will do “all we reasonably can” to assist the incoming 20,000 Syrian refugees expected to come to the UK over the next five years “because morally it’s the right thing to do”.

“Over recent weeks and especially since some of the dreadful images of children that have shocked the world, we have been very conscious of the role the county council may be asked to play, in responding to the European migrant situation,” said Mr Perry.

“Since the Prime Minister announced that Britain should accept 20,000 refugees from Syria over the next five years, we have been seeking advice and guidance from Government, as well as an indication of where these refugees may be located and their numbers.

“Obviously, any response must be coordinated with our partner agencies, such as district councils, who are responsible for housing – to ensure that the overall support package offered in Hampshire is sustainable and effective.

“I’m aware that a number of very public-spirited Hampshire residents have wanted to help and have approached various schemes to volunteer. I wholeheartedly applaud these people and their motivation, which I believe reflects a national tradition of supporting those most in need.”

He went on to say that he recognises “some residents” may have “genuine concerns” about the “financial implications” should support be needed over the longer-term, and what this might mean for public sector services which are “already stretched”.

“This is another reason to ensure that a collaborative response is undertaken with Government and our partners,” he added.

“In the meantime, Hampshire is taking a proactive stance in planning what our contribution may be; particularly as we expect many of the migrants to be unaccompanied children or orphans who would automatically become the responsibility of the county council on their arrival in Hampshire – as children in our care.

“Wider discussions are under way with our public sector and voluntary sector partners across the county, as well as those across the wider south east region, together with the church and faith groups. I have been contacted by the Bishop of Winchester, and I know he is anxious that the Church plays what part it can.

“At this stage, we are working collectively with all partners to identify how best we can support children and families who may come to Hampshire as refugees.

Part of this will likely be financial assistance to voluntary groups that want to organise relief supplies, he explained.

Previously, East Hampshire MP Damian Hinds said Britain is a “compassionate country” and backed the commitment to give refuge to 20,000 Syrians.

The conflict in Syria and neighbouring Iraq has seen millions of refugees driven from their homes.

The Syrian fighting is a particularly complex situation with people fleeing the forces of president Bashar al-Assad while trying to avoid the Islamic State group, which has advanced in the region.