The leader of a flagship Conservative council has backed new laws clamping down on squatters, despite warnings from the charities sector that it could lead to a rise in homelessness.

Philippa Roe, leader of Westminster City Council, this week backed new national laws making squatting a criminal offence in England and Wales. From last weekend, squatters face up top six months in jail, or a potential £5,000 fine, if they are caught.