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Sadiq Khan has backed calls for an amnesty on illegal immigrants who were living in Grenfell Tower at the time of the blaze.

The Mayor of London told LBC radio station that he supported a promise to protect undocumented migrants living in the tower which could urge more people to come forward and declare themselves as safe.

It comes as at least 79 people are now missing and presumed dead following last week’s devastating fire, but police said the toll could change.

Sadiq Khan told the station on Thursday morning: “No action must be taken against anybody in Grenfell Tower who comes forward.

"There may be some people who are sub-letting, breaching their tenancy agreement.

"There may be people who have got friends and family visiting, who they are worried about if they report them because they haven't got immigration status.

"All of those people should feel confident that if they come forward and speak to the authorities, that no action will be taken."

Later on Thursday, Theresa May went on to pledge in the Commons that any illegal immigrants who were living in Grenfell Tower would not be reported to the Home Office.

It came after charities expressed concerns for illegal immigrants and subtenants in the block who may not be seeking state help because of fears of what might happen.

Last week some of London’s lawyers offered to help victims of the tragedy including immigrants who are in the process of applying for residency and may have lost important documents in the fire.

Commander Stuart Cundy previously urged anyone else who was in the 24-storey building “but for whatever reason has not told us they are safe” to contact the force’s casualty bureau.

“It does not matter why you have not told us, what is important is that we know you are safe,” Mr Cundy added.

According to LBC, the Mayor will now be asking the Government to consider the issue during meetings to deal with the disaster.