ONE of the region's councils was condemned last night for advising homeless people to read a "squatters' handbook" - with tips on how break into and occupy empty homes.

The £2 guide - which advises that "private houses may provide years of housing to lucky squatters" - is advertised on Durham County Council's website.

The handbook advises would-be squatters to force entry through back entrances or open windows during the day, to avoid making the neighbours "jumpy".

It suggests wearing "council-style overalls" to avoid suspicion, or carrying a crowbar so a passing police officer can be told the purpose is to "clear the drains".

The guide, from the Advisory Service for Squatters, also recommends quoting the Human Rights Act to gas and electricity companies refusing to reconnect supplies.

Last night, the Conservatives condemned the advert - while red-faced Durham officials immediately pledged to investigate why it was on the county council's website.

Eric Pickles, the Tory local government spokesman, said: "Homeowners will be horrified that town halls are giving squatters the green light to break into law-abiding citizens' homes.

"Promoting such lawlessness is breathtaking, but is sadly an indictment of social breakdown that has become rife under Labour and the prevalence of human rights laws.

"This revelation, coupled with the fact that violent crime is doubling, blows apart Labour's claim to be the party of law and order."

Durham County Council is one of seven local authorities known to advertise the guide on their websites, but the only one in the North-East or North Yorkshire.

The handbook also advises:

* Putting a legal warning on the door, stating it is a criminal offence to try to remove squatters by force;

* Telling homeowners who threaten removal that they "may receive a sentence of up to six months' imprisonment and/or a fine of up to £5,000";

* Deactivating alarm sensors with Sellotape and muffling the sound of alarm bells "with a few coats";

* How to take apart locks and fit new ones;

* Once the home is secured, put the kettle on.

* Apply for council tax benefit as soon as you move in.

Rosemary Laxton, Durham's head of learning and culture, said the guide was advertised as part of the county council's "Community Information Online" service, which contained more than 6,000 entries.

She said: "It provides countywide, regional and national information for people in all aspects of their daily lives, from choirs and childcare to sports clubs and hobbies.

"Now that this particular listing has been drawn to our attention, we will investigate and, if there is anything that recommends illegal action, we will take steps to remove it."