HC Deb 30 May 1963 vol 678 cc1517-8
14. Mr. Shepherd

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what are the factors which have brought him to the conclusion that the balance of advantage lies in not harmonising United Kingdom time with that of Europe.

The Joint Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department (Mr. C. M. Woodhouse)

To extend the period of Summer Time throughout the winter would inconvenience certain out-of-door industries, in particular farming, which require light for an early start to the day's work, and would mean that for a few weeks more people, including school children, would have to leave home in the dark. So far, these disadvantages have, in our judgment, prevailed against the advantages of an extension to the whole year.

Mr. Shepherd

Does not my hon. Friend think it remarkable that he should consider our farming community when on the Continent there is at least four times the percentage employed on farms? If we are to harmonise our affairs with Europe, is it not time that we took positive steps in even small matters?

Mr. Woodhouse

The Continent is a different place, and what we have to consider are the advantages to and convenience of people in this country. It is a matter of balance. It is a difficult question, and I can only assure my hon. Friend that my right hon. Friend's mind is not closed to a final decision.

Mr. Marsh

Does the Under-Secretary of State seriously suggest that British cattle need different clocks from Continental cattle? Does he really think that he is helping parents by these changes of time? Does he not believe that most parents—although in this country we normally pay more attention to animals —find constant changes in the time very inconvenient? But can he tell us the real differences between British and Continental cattle?

Mr. Woodhouse

I do not make any assertions comparing Continental and British cattle. As to the children, I think that this is a matter of inconvenience that many parents feel, but it is a matter that we are prepared to reconsider, and we do so annually, with a view to deciding whether or not the period of Summer Time should be extended.