David Cameron has said he was "deeply moved" by shocking pictures of a drowned Syrian boy washed up on a beach - but refused to say whether Britain would increase the number of refugees it takes.
The Prime Minister promised that the UK would fulfil its "moral responsibilities" amid a backlash over handling of the migration crisis wracking Europe, but stopped short of making specific commitments.
The government has opted out of UN and EU schemes that could mean accepting tens of thousands of asylum seekers, instead taking smaller numbers and arguing that the focus should be on bringing "peace and stability" to the war-ravaged areas they are fleeing.
But Labour and a number of Conservatives have demanded a shift in policy, with Mr Cameron being warned that he faces a "test of humanity" and must honour the British tradition of offering sanctuary to those in need.
Mr Cameron told reporters: "Anyone who saw those pictures overnight could not help but be moved and, as a father, I felt deeply moved by the sight of that young boy on a beach in Turkey.
"Britain is a moral nation and we will fulfil our moral responsibilities."