James William Cleland

James William Cleland (1874 – 21 October 1914) was a Scottish Liberal Party politician and Barrister.

Background He was born in Glasgow in 1874, the son of Charles Cleland, a manufacturer. He was educated at The Glasgow Academy before moving south to complete his education at Balliol College, Oxford, where he graduated with honours in the School of Jurisprudence. In 1897, whilst at University he became President of the Oxford Union.

Career In 1899 he was called to the Bar at Middle Temple in London.

He returned to London and soon became active in politics in London and in 1901 he was elected to the London County Council for the Liberal backed Progressive Party, representing Lewisham. As part of the ruling administration, he was appointed Chairman of Parks and Establishment Committees.

In 1907 he did not seek re-election to the London County Council so that he could concentrate on his parliamentary duties. After one full parliamentary term, he sought re-election and was successful;

He chose not to defend his seat at the December 1910 General Election and did not stand for parliament again.

He remained single throughout his life and died in 1914 at the age of 40.