Today the Government announced support for the Daylight Saving Bill – calling for a change to the way we set our clocks. As a long-time supporter of the bill, and the Lighter Later campaign behind it, Mark Pawsey, MP for Rugby welcomed the move.
Mark said:
“This announcement will be warmly welcomed by the road safety organisations, sporting bodies, tourism industries and community groups that make up the 80 strong coalition backing the Lighter Later campaign. Evidence suggests that moving an hour of light from the early morning to the evening could make our roads safer, cut the UK’s carbon while boosting its economy and provide more time for leisure activities and sport.”
Mark added:
"This announcement is a big step forward as it would require the UK Government to conduct a proper review of the evidence for and against changing the clocks. By rationally weighing up the evidence I believe we have the opportunity to become safer, healthier and more prosperous."
After passing its Second Reading in parliament back in December 2010, the bill is now set to receive government backing following amendments to ensure any change only happens with the full support of the devolved administrations.
In a government announcement, Business Minster Ed Davey said:
“It is only right that we at least look at what the potential economic and social benefits of any change might be. Lower road deaths, reduced carbon dioxide emissions and improved health have all been argued over the years as possible benefits. If there is strong evidence to support this then we should at least see what the possible benefits are.”