Socred sets up ‘polwings’

Press, 2 October 1979, Page 6

Socred sets up ‘polwings’

Social Credit is setting up a network of “polwings” to counter attacks by National and Labour “demolition” groups. A Canterbury regional political wing (polwing for short) has been established as part of this network. Its purpose is to maintain a political profile, leaving the regional council and branches to concentrate on administrative matters.

Social Credit’s regional spokesman (Mr T. M. Heffernan) said that the Canterbury’ polwing would also try to capitalise on the strong vote Social Credit received in the Christchurch Central by-election, in which it pushed the National Party into third place. The polwdngs would formulate replies to the “longawaited” attacks by National and Labour, and act as a

policy vehicle, said Mr Heffernan.

The attacks by political opponents were a sign of a change of attitude from those parties. “They have been trying to ignore us and hoped we would go away. But they have found that it. did not work;’* Mr Heffernan said.

Polwings are being set up under guidance of the league’s deputy leader (Mr J. P. Dwyer) in an effort to develop a professional approach and to maintain political interest among league members for the 1981 General Election. Mr Heffernan said the group was set up mainly for potential candidates. “It is essential for the co-ordination of candidates and in candidate training. It becomes more imperative as our image becomes more professional,” he said.