Former art gallery director Julian Spalding has called for renewed cooperation between Britain's Tate and National galleries, advocating for the revival of a discontinued artwork-sharing practice that he believes would benefit both institutions and taxpayers. His recommendation comes amid broader discussions about cultural policies and political changes in the United Kingdom.

Spalding, who previously served as director of art galleries in Sheffield, Manchester, and Glasgow, explained that the Tate had historically transferred a select group of paintings to the National Gallery when their world-class significance became apparent. This practice was referenced in a September 10th report titled "National Gallery accused of risking bad blood with Tate over 20th-century art." However, this collaborative arrangement was discontinued in 2000 without any public consultation, despite Spalding's efforts to generate discussion on the matter.

The former gallery director argues that reviving this artwork-sharing system would provide multiple benefits to Britain's cultural institutions. According to Spalding, such cooperation would save public money by avoiding unnecessary duplication of acquisitions, while simultaneously honoring the Tate's expertise in recognizing significant artworks. He believes this approach would also free up the Tate to focus on discovering and acquiring the great, lasting paintings being created today.

Meanwhile, political observers are offering suggestions for potential new political movements in Britain. David Reynolds from Diss, Norfolk, has proposed that Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana's rumored new political party be called "Real Labour." Reynolds believes this name effectively captures what he perceives as their political stance and would resonate strongly with their supporters. He suggests that as current Labour Party leaders Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves fade from prominence, the new party could gradually drop the "Real" designation.

The political commentary extends to reflections on the New Labour era and its key figures. Douglas Currie from Edinburgh raised questions about the completion of Tony Blair's New Labour project, referencing Blair's previous declaration that the project would not be complete until the Labour Party "learned to love Peter Mandelson." Given recent developments reported on September 11th, Currie questions whether the New Labour project can now be considered "dead and buried."

Additionally, Kevin Quinn from Musselburgh, East Lothian, expressed little sympathy for Peter Mandelson's current political situation, noting that Mandelson retains his position in the House of Lords for life. This commentary reflects ongoing debates about political legacy and institutional arrangements in British politics, alongside the cultural discussions about museum cooperation and artwork sharing policies.