Attlee maybe being merciful (7)
I believe the answer is:
clement
'merciful' is the definition.
(associated in meaning)
I don't understand the remainder of the clue.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for clement that I've seen before include "Patron saint of tanners" , "Temperate" , "Fair" , "Of weather, mild and gentle" , "Kindly (applied to weather)" .)