Lewisham's mayor has spoken out about government fire safety funding for local authorities following the Grenfell Tower tragedy.

In a letter sent to Sajid Javid MP, secretary of state for the Department for Communities and Local Government, Steve Bullock said the government should fund the removal of cladding from three New Cross tower blocks.

He also asked for clarification about when the money would be available.

He wrote: "At this early stage we don’t know how much the detailed work to remove cladding and make the subsequent repairs to the three buildings will cost, but it is likely to be considerable.

"I am also clear that leaseholders should not be charged for this vital work, as they would be for general building improvements to their properties.

"It was therefore disappointing that your speech to the LGA Conference did not clarify the willingness of the government to underwrite the costs which my authority and many others will incur.

"I would therefore be grateful if you would now confirm if the Prime Minister’s commitment to support local authorities with funding, in London and across the country, still stands, and when any money would be available for this vital work."

Cladding was removed from two high rise blocks in Hatfield Close and Gerrard House following tests and 24-hour fire safety patrols were started in the affected buildings.

More than 30 Lewisham Council employees have been sent to Kensington and Chelsea to help in the aftermath of the tragedy as well as Lewisham chief executive Barry Quirk.