HC Deb 12 February 1942 vol 377 cc1580-1
32. Mr. Lipson

asked the Home Secretary whether he can yet make any statement about the duration of double summer-time this year?

Mr. H. Morrison

After full consideration of the advantages and disadvantages of adding an extra hour of daylight in the evening to the summer months, and in view of the experience gained last year when this scheme was first put into operation, the Government has decided that on balance it is desirable to advance the clock again this year by another hour, and at an earlier date. The period of duration of double summer-time will begin this year on the night of Saturday 4th April, and end on the night of Saturday, 8th August.

Professor Savory

Has ray right hon. Friend consulted the Minister of Agriculture on this question?

Mr. Morrison

Yes, Sir, very fully, and I have been in friendly consultation with other Ministers.

Sir P. Hurd

Will milk-producing counties have the same safeguards as last year, so as not to hamper milk production?

Mr. Morrison

The Minister of Agriculture proposes, as last year; to consider the special problems of agricuture—for example, the time of milk trains in consultation with the organisations of farmers and farm workers. He hopes to make an announcement at an early date.

Mr. Thorne

Is it not possible for farmers to make arrangements with the labourers?

Mr. Morrison

As I said, my right hon. Friend will consult farm workers, but, unfortunately, there is no organisation representing the cows.

Professor Savory

Do not forget the hens.