He began as deputy chairman of their youth wing, while also working as an engineer. In the 1910s he rose in the hierarchy of the party press, and eventually in the Labour Party and the Confederation of Trade Unions as well.
He started in a position of influence within the youth wing of the party while also working as an engineer. During the 1910s, he gained prominence in the party's press and eventually rose to leadership positions within both the Labour Party and the Confederation of Trade Unions.