Following the announcement by David Cameron on 4 May that the UK will accept an unspecified number of unaccompanied children who have arrived in the EU from Syria, Cardinal Vincent has made the following statement welcoming the decision:

'I am very happy that the government is extending an offer of sanctuary to a greater number of children fleeing conflict, while continuing to combat the evils of human trafficking.

'The UK’s response to the refugee crisis is improving the lives of thousands. I encourage the Catholic community to keep on playing its part through working with local authorities; being generous with time and resources, and extending the hand of welcome to refugees arriving here.'