A WIRRAL West MP has asked the government if it will offer the UK as a place of sanctuary for people fleeing Ukraine.

Margaret Greenwood was speaking in a parliamentary debate which was called by Labour. 

As of 2 March, it was estimated that over 870,000 people had fled Ukraine for neighbouring countries including Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania and Moldova. 

Margaret Greenwood MP said: “My thoughts are with all of those who are affected by Vladimir Putin’s unprovoked and unjustifiable invasion of Ukraine. 

“It is a desperately tragic situation. There has already been a huge loss of life and, people’s homes are being destroyed. 

“It is absolutely vital that the government does all it can to ensure that we are providing essential humanitarian assistance to the people of Ukraine.”

 So far, the government has taken measures to enable those with family ties to the UK to join their families in the UK.

Ministers have also confirmed that the government has pledged £220 million of aid, which includes £120 million of humanitarian assistance, providing Ukrainians with access to the basic necessities and vital medical supplies.

Greenwood added: “The UN estimates that four million residents could flee their country, creating the largest refugee crisis that Europe has witnessed for decades.  

“It is vital too that the government offers the UK as a place of sanctuary for people who are fleeing for their lives.

“The government has made arrangements for people who have family here, but it must go further.

“We cannot stand by as people are bombed and killed in their homes.”