§ 10. Captain Pilkingtonasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department on what date he asked the National Farmers' Union for its views on increasing the period of Summer Time; and when he hopes to receive its answer.
§ 12. Mr. Hunterasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department when he expects to receive the results of the consideration by the farmers unions of the matter of prolonging Summer Time.
§ The Joint Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department (Mr. David Renton)The Agricultural Departments asked the National Farmers' Unions of England and Wales and of Scotland for their views towards the end of last year, and replies have recently been received from both unions opposing an extension of Summer Time.
§ Captain PilkingtonCan my hon. and learned Friend say to what extent this was completely unanimous in the farming industry? Is he aware that many other sections of the community would like to see more sunlit hours in the evenings?
§ Mr. RentonThe two unions expressed opposition to the extension without qualification. As to other interests, it is true that there is a considerable body of support, especially in the tourist industry, for the extension of Summer Time in October. My right hon. Friend will consider the various points of view put to him, but I would point out that if any permanent and fundamental change were to be made it would require legislation.
§ Mr. HunterWill the hon. and learned Gentleman bear in mind that one hour's extra daylight in October would benefit millions of people? Is he aware that when I raised this matter in the House on a previous occasion the same reply was given by the then Home Secretary but that farmers wrote to me from all over the country saying that instead of being against their interests it would help them?
§ Mr. RentonIt may be that an extension of time in October would give pleasure to many people, but it would also inconvenience a great many people on the land, as the National Farmers' Union suggests.
§ Mr. Gordon WalkerWill the hon. and learned Gentleman bear in mind that many of the people whom such a provision would benefit are not as well organised as those who might be disadvantaged by it? That fact should be borne in mind in endeavouring to reach the right conclusion.
§ Mr. RentonIt is borne very much in mind.
§ Mr. HunterIn view of that unsatisfactory reply, I beg to give notice that I shall raise this matter at the earliest opportunity.