§ 2. Mr. Buchanan-Smithasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has received so far this winter regarding British Standard Time.
§ Mr. BuchanSince 19th June, 1969, when the Government announced their decision to continue with the British Standard Time experiment and to review its effects on the basis of two winters' experience, my right hon. Friend has received representations against the experiment from three local authorities, four organisations and three individuals.
§ Mr. Buchanan-SmithOn the last occasion that the hon. Gentleman answered a Question about this matter he was very vague about the form and at what time the review would take place. Can he now say exactly how the review will take place, and will the evidence given to it be published so that the public can make up their minds about it and other factors which do not affect them immediately?
§ Mr. BuchanWe have to bring this matter to Parliament before the end of this year. We are already entering into consultations with various bodies concerned as well as carrying out a very full survey of the social and industrial effects over the period under review. Therefore, very full details will be given when it comes before Parliament.
§ Mr. MonroWhy did the hon. Gentleman decline an invitation to go and stay on a farm during the winter and find out how difficult it is to operate under British Standard Time?
§ Mr. BuchanHon. Members opposite are as predictable as the sunrise. If there was one question which I could have predicted, it was that one. The hon. Gentleman knows the answer perfectly well. I know the problems, and, gracious as the invitation was, there was nothing to be learned from accepting it. I preferred to spend Christmas in the bosom of my own family.