Bexley has confirmed it will be supporting refugee families coming from Afghanistan after pressure from the local MP.

The Conservative council said they had "always been keen to play our part" and confirmed their participation in the national programme supporting families coming into the UK via the Afghan Relocation and Assistance Policy (ARAP).

On September 2, Abena Oppong-Asare wrote to the leader of the council 'seeking clarification' on how they intend to offering support to the refugees fleeing Afghanistan after Bexley had not yet committed to helping.

The MP for Erith and Thamesmead said that with other councils taking a strong leadership role to the crisis, "I would be keen to know what plans Bexley have to play a similar leadership role."

Adding that she "sincerely hopes the rest of the council understands its responsibilities", the MP said it was "deeply disappointing" to see Bexley councillors being critical of other council's efforts on social media.

This follows comments by Bexley councillor John Davey who questioned how homeless people in Greenwich would feel about the borough's pledge to help Afghan refugees, sparking a Twitter fight between with Greenwich's leader.

News Shopper: The evacuation of Afghanistan - PAThe evacuation of Afghanistan - PA

Around 500 adults and 200 children arrived from Afghanistan in Greenwich at the end of August, arriving with just the clothes on their backs, and are currently quarantining in a hotel in the borough.

Their arrival sparked an urgent appeal for clothes and essential items and Greenwich Council have redeployed dozens of staff as the Town Hall has become a temporary aid centre. The council has since urged the Government to offer help.

Bexley Council said on Friday, September 3, that they had been in regular contact with key agencies and will continue to work closely with the Home Office as part of the London resettlement programme.

It is expected that some families will be placed in Bexley over the coming weeks and months. Funding for resettling families comes from central Government.

Councillor Teresa O'Neill OBE, leader of the council said: "We have always been keen to play our part in helping those seeking refuge and we are delighted by the offers of help and support we have already received from local people.

"Along with most other local authorities, we are not seeking donations of physical goods at this stage, but we know that appropriate charities would welcome donations.

"As the situation develops, we will be clearer on the particular help individual families will need. When we do, we will follow up on the kind offers we are receiving, or redirect them to the most appropriate agency."