Change clocks to "Churchill Time", urges local MP
Churchill Time would see us remain one hour ahead of GMT in the winter.
Last updated 27th Oct 2024
The clocks have gone back an hour in the early hours of this morning (Sunday 27th October) which means our evenings will be getting darker a whole hour earlier.
It marks the end of British Summer Time (BST) and daylight saving, and a return to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).
But, MP for Dunstable and Leighton Buzzard, Alex Mayer wants to see "a fundamental shake up of time."
She suggests returning to "Churchill Time", where clocks remain one hour ahead of GMT in winter, and then two hours ahead in the spring.
This was first introduced by Winston Churchill in the Second World War, as an energy-saving measure.
Ms Mayer said: “During World War II, we maximised daylight hours to conserve vital energy resources.
"There’s another crisis today, and in this time of climate crisis, it’s time to think about making best use of our natural daylight.”
In a letter to Secretary of State for Business and Skills, Ms Mayer argues that in the midst of a climate emergency, the move is an ideal way to cut energy use.
It could also mean people enjoy more time outdoors, spend more time and money involved with their local communities, and give hospitality and retail sectors a much-needed boost.
Ms Mayer added: "I'd like to see a more fundamental shake up of time, where we're always an hour ahead of where we are now.
"I really think we should explore this idea again."