A radical break

Socialists today must recognise that the transition to Socialism means a radical and complete break with the whole constitutional and parliamentary framework in its present form. John A. Lee had this opportunity with the [unclear: Democratic] Labour Party, but failed to create a strong enough movement (admitted[unclear: y] unlikely in difficult war[unclear: ame] conditions) which could be committed to structural reform. The weaknesses in Lee's own ideology contributed to this failure, but his honesty and courage in fighting for his aims are something from which every politician can learn. The greatest danger to Lee's convictions came from the trade unions, whose block vote was decisive in his expulsion. Today we have Lee speaking of the syndicalist nature of the trade union movement, and siding with the State in the determination of wages for workers on public works. Lee's justified bitterness has again forced him into a Fabian defender of the State.