Ministers back winter clock change

31/10/11

By Yamurai Zendera

Scotland must be onboard if the Government is to back plans for UK clocks to go forward by one hour all year round, it has emerged.

Prime Minister David Cameron said he is "interested" in the idea after hearing the arguments from the pro-lobby, who say it will cut road deaths, boost tourism and reduce energy use.

Moving to Central European Time would mean lighter winter evenings, and has been championed by motoring bodies such as The Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM), The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) and road safety charity Brake.

If the Private Member's Bill were to get through Parliament, it would pave the way for a three year trial of the scheme.

But ministers are tabling amendments to the Daylight Savings Bill which would require consultation with the devolved authorities in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Any "clear opposition" would mean the plans were dropped.