A NEW guide is being produced telling councillors not to tweet when upset or use social media during meetings in case people think they are not paying attention.

Durham County Council’s standards committee is developing the guidance on how members should use social media.

Last year, the committee said a 25 per cent rise in complaints about councillors was down to things posted on social media.

Among the guidance on “netiquette”, councillors are asked to think carefully about who to “befriend” online and advises not to use it when tired, angry or upset.

It also suggests committee members do not use it during meetings because “it is important not to give the impression that insufficient attention is being given to the discussion” and warns councillors about “sleuthing” to find out more about people, in case it amounts to unlawful surveillance.

The guide also covers legal issues like defamation, harassment and malicious communications.

The guidance says: “Social media can be a vital tool for public debate and its use by councillors is encouraged.

“There are however some pitfalls to be aware of, and this local guidance is produced to help councillors avoid these.”

Between April 2016 and March 2017, a total of 70 complaints were made to Durham County Council because of concerns that county, town and parish councillors were not complying with the code of conduct.