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Looks like a time for a change

Britain considers winding on clocks, moving closer to Europe

LONDON: With a single sweep of an hour hand, Britain could shift closer to its continental neighbours and illuminate the thick gloom of winter evenings, a former Minister said, outlining proposals to set the country's clocks in line with mainland Europe.

Former Environment Minister Tim Yeo laid out plans to switch the country to Central European Time, 60 minutes ahead of current settings. But he stressed that regional Parliaments and Assemblies in other major areas in the U.K. such as Wales, Scotland and — assuming its Assembly resumes — Northern Ireland, would be free to opt out.

While he aims to reduce road deaths, boost tourism and promote outdoor activity, the proposal raised the prospect London could wake up with Paris — but not at the same time as Edinburgh, Cardiff or Belfast.

Mr. Yeo, an Opposition Conservative lawmaker, said his plan was "a simple change which would benefit everyone by creating a safer and greener country." He said government studies had predicted a time shift would lead to 130 fewer road deaths, a billion-pound increase in tourism earnings and a reduction in energy consumption — aiding efforts to meet carbon emissions targets.

To be put formally to Parliament, the plan would need Government sponsorship, after filibustering MPs prevented a vote on Friday. — AP

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