Wandering around the National Galleries of Scotland with ‘a keen eye for Socialism’ (OK so I don’t get out that much), you would eventually be presented with a rather dark portrait by Sir John Lavery of James Maxton (1885 – 1946) the Independent Labour Party member for Bridgeton, Glasgow (1922-46).

Standing firm with crossed arms, Maxton peers out at the determined viewer with piercing eyes. There is no smile on his face, he is not a happy person one ponders. In the background is a representation of the industrialized Clyde impressing upon the onlooker both the harshness and the vitality of the once burgeoning shipbuilding industry so close to Maxton’s heart.

On any other day you would probably pass this portrait by, but this week there is a draw to seek out such celebrities to assure oneself of the birth and the truth behind a present Labour Party, now in such disarray North and South of the border, in the hope that a reminiscence of Maxton may present some way forward.

David Kirkwood (My Life of Revolt , 1935) wrote that Maxton ‘…is that rare combination of fearless oratory and absolute truth…He is a great speaker. Sometimes he is more than that. He is a prophet…’. If there is one politician that should know this it is the current UK Prime Minister, Gordon Brown. Brown’s PhD thesis was centred on James Maxton.

It is unfortunate then that Brown is not a good speaker and one also senses his ability to tell the truth is less than positive. So much for New Labour ideals.

This week also saw Wendy Alexander, SMP, leader of the Labour Party in Scotland, appear to break ranks with Gordon Brown over the debacle on Scottish Independence by apparently seeking an immediate referendum from the (near) ruling Scottish Nationalists.

What is happening is anybody's guess right now, but maybe some ambitious politicians have been to the National Gallery in Edinburgh and paused in front of James Maxton’s portrait. Whatever the circumstances, it is definitely an exciting time in politics.

Maxton's portrait:
http://www.nationalgalleries.org/media_collection/5/PG%201416.jpg

HD