Tory blues

Local Tories were out to save their faces again after an embarrassing party tangle.

The right-wingers saw their top man quit the most powerful position on Renfrew District Council – for the third time in 19 months, we reported in January 1980.

And as the Conservatives struggled to hold command, political opponents gleefully took advantage of their plight. The shock resignation of Paisley councillor Frank Carlin as convener of the policy and resources committee cast doubt on the Tories ability to run the administration.

Even leading Conservatives admitted they wondered if their public service was worthwhile when meetings turned into“comedy shows”because of blatant disregard for standing orders.

But there were side issues to the resignation which had left the true-blue Tories with red faces.

Councillor Carlin quit because members of the Tory group voted against him on an issue.