NEIL Carmichael (in his column of September 9) rightly recognised the misery caused by the present refugee crisis but rather than pressing for greater action by the Tory government tries to put the blame on those who ”would not support” military action in Syria.

In August 2013 Labour opposed bombing by the UK intended to prevent the use of chemical weapons.

Ignoring issues of legality, Labour opposition resulted in a diplomatic approach towards disposing of those weapons.

I fully agree with Mr Carmichael that a political rather than a military solution is needed.

However, he does not adequately address the scale of the current refugee crisis.

Millions are in refugee camps – and not only from Syria.

Hundreds of thousands are seeking asylum in Europe risking their lives in order to get here.

Germany has led the way in welcoming 800,000 refugees and indicating a preparedness to accept half a million a year for some time ahead.

France has offered to accept 24,000 refugees in a year.

Cameron is only aiming at 20,000 over five years and refuses to take part in any EU quota system.

Not only are the numbers he is talking about far too low but it appears that the cost involved is to be paid out of the aid budget, penalising those who might otherwise benefit from it, often themselves in great need.

Current efforts to support the thousands of refugees in Calais – not one of whom would benefit from the current proposals –- whether financially, in providing clothing, tents, bedding etc are vital but what is also needed is pressure on the government to allow far more of those unfortunate people to come to Britain and a speedier process for "processing" applicants.

It is clear from the many offers of housing and the positive attitude of the Labour- led Stroud District Council that we in the Stroud district want to play our part in welcoming some of these refugees.

The "Big Society" has spoken.

Action is needed now, Mr Carmichael.

Dick Greenslade Chairman, Stroud CLP