Lyon's success at union organising led him to election as the treasurer, and then the secretary, of Falkirk Trades Council. He also began writing articles for the People's Journal. In 1901, he accepted a job as organiser of the new Carters' Association, moving back to Glasgow. The following year, he was elected by a large majority to take over as general secretary from John Simpson. He also joined the Independent Labour Party (ILP), and was immediately made chairman of its Springburn branch.
