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EU leaders pledge extra €1 billion to tackle refugee crisis

The "greatest tide" of refugees is yet to come, Europe's leaders have been warned as they pledged another €1 billion (£733 million) to tackle the crisis.

Heads of state were locked in talks for more than five hours in Brussels as they attempted to overcome divisions and find a unified response.

Speaking after the emergency summit, European Council president Donald Tusk said while they had taken a step in the right direction, the policy of "open doors and windows" must be corrected.

Prime Minister David Cameron - who committed an extra £115 million in aid - said a "comprehensive approach" was needed to solve the crisis.

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Britain 'side-stepping' responsibilities over migrants

The British government has been accused of failing in its responsibilities after EU ministers agreed to take in 120,000 migrants.

As the first Syrian refugees arrived in Britain, the Refugee Council called on David Cameron to take part in the EU scheme, saying it was "extremely disappointing that Britain has so far chosen to side step its responsibility to help protect some of the refugees arriving in Europe."

The Prime Minister must demonstrate real leadership by putting aside domestic political concerns and proving he will not turn his back while refugees are met by closed borders, barbed wire fences and tear gas. He must respond compassionately and collaboratively to ensure that refugees arriving in Europe are provided with the protection they so desperately need.

– Refugee Council chief executive, Maurice Wren
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EU leaders pledge extra €1 billion to tackle refugee crisis

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