67. Lieut.-Colonel MURRAYasked the Home Secretary whether, with regard to the introduction of summer time for this year, he has given full consideration to the views of the agricultural community in Scotland on the matter; whether he has been in consultation with the Secretary for Scotland as to these views and, if so, with what result; and whether it is proposed to introduce legislation for the fixing of summer time?
§ Mr. SHORTTThe answer to the first and third paragraphs of the question is in the affirmative. With regard to the second paragraph, I have consulted the Secretary for Scotland and he concurs in the view that any disadvantages which might be felt by agriculturists were not sufficient to outweigh the advantages derived by the community as a whole from the continuance of summer time between April and September.
Lieut.-Colonel MURRAYWill the right hon. Gentleman answer the last paragraph, whether it is proposed to introduce legislation?
§ Mr. SHORTTI did so at the outset.
Lieut.-Colonel MURRAYHow does the right hon. Gentleman reconcile that with the statement made by his Under-Secretary last year to the effect that legislation would be introduced this Session?
§ Mr. SPEAKERWhen an hon. Member refers to an answer given last year he should give notice.
§ 68. Sir HARRY HOPEasked the Home Secretary whether, in view of the very serious effect which the prolongation of summer time up to 2nd October will have on harvesting operations in Scotland, and especially in view of the fact that thousands of acres of grain were lost last year from this cause, he will take steps to terminate the summer time on the 1st of September?
§ Mr. SHORTTI regret that I do not see my way to alter the decision which has already been announced, and which was arrived at after consultation with the Scottish Authorities. I must not be understood as admitting that there is any ground for the suggestion in the last part of the question.
§ Sir H. HOPEIn view of the fact that the harvest in Scotland was so much destroyed last year because of this, will the right hon. Gentleman take steps to alter the time if representations are made from Scotland?
§ Mr. SHORTTI do not agree with the hon. Member's statement of fact.