‘Honest’ look at Socred

Press, 10 November 1981, Page 6

‘Honest’ look at Socred

The Social Credit Political League has not welcomed the latest book written about it. “Social Credit — Inside Out,” published by Caveman Press, Dunedin, has been written by Michael Sheppard, a former Social Credit candidate and regional and national spokesman. He has now resigned from the league and has joined the Labour Party. The 175-page book, which will sell for $9.25, covers the League of Rights, the performance of Social Credit in Canada, and Social Credit economic theory. “It is an honest attempt to put before the public of New Zealand facts about Social Credit which might not otherwise come to their attention,” says Mr Sheppard, in a preface.

The book’s theme is that if Social Credit is a viable, democratic economic alternative, then either Labour or National should give way to it in the national interest.

“If, on the other hand, Social Credit’s economics are based on a false premise, or

could lead to an undemocratic situation, Social Credit is distorting our political system by taking votes from the tradional parties," said Mr Sheppard. The Social Credit leader (Mn Beetham) has criticised Mr Sheppard for writing the book.