§ 21. Mr. Wyattasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what estimate he made of the total cost in fuel, lighting and other factors of putting back the clocks by one hour and thus ending Summer Time.
§ Mr. George ThomasNo estimate of cost has been made, but the effects on fuel production, and in particular on electricity generation, were among the many factors taken into account when the present arrangements were made.
§ Mr. WyattDoes not my hon. Friend agree that it would be a good idea to make an estimate of the cost of putting the clocks back an hour? Would not he consider having an inter-Departmental committee to consult the Secretary of State for Economic Affairs to decide whether or not we should keep Summer Time permanently, and introduce it next year much earlier than is expected?
§ Mr. ThomasMany other questions are involved apart from cost, and I am afraid that I cannot accept my hon. Friend's suggestion.
§ Mr. A. RoyleWill the hon. Gentleman examine this matter again? Is he aware that many exporters—especially those dealing with Europe—find this change in the hour extremely awkward? It would help our export trade if he would agree to reconsider the whole matter.
§ Mr. ThomasI am aware that there are difficulties for people concerned with the export trade. On the other hand, the farming industry, educational interests, and at least half the trade unions whose workers go to work earlier than most of us in the morning, have a different point of view.