Overview

The Energy Saving (Daylight) Bill proposes a year-round shift of the UK's clocks forward by one hour, as a trial to assess its impact on energy consumption and other factors. The trial would last for a set period, and its effects would be monitored by a specially appointed review panel.

Description

This bill aims to amend existing legislation related to timekeeping in the UK. It mandates a permanent change to the time, moving it forward one hour relative to Greenwich Mean Time. This effectively eliminates the practice of changing clocks for British Summer Time (BST). The Summer Time Act 1972 would be altered to reflect this change.

The bill further establishes a Daylight Saving Review Panel to analyze the impact of this time change. The panel, appointed by the Secretary of State, will comprise experts from various fields and publish a report assessing changes to road traffic accidents, energy consumption, illness rates, and other relevant areas before the measure's expiry. The legislation explicitly addresses the implications for devolved administrations in Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, ensuring these regions have control over implementation details.

Government Spending

The bill will require government funding. While no specific figures are provided, the costs will cover the expenses of the Daylight Saving Review Panel, including member remuneration, expenses, and other administrative costs associated with the panel's work and implementation of the bill's provisions. These will be paid from money provided by Parliament.

Groups Affected

The bill will impact virtually all UK residents, businesses, and government organizations. The Daylight Saving Review Panel will specifically analyze the effects on the following:

• Road users: Changes to road traffic accident rates will be studied.
• Energy companies: The bill aims to reduce energy consumption, and the effects on energy usage patterns will be assessed.
• Healthcare services: Any changes in illness levels or health-related incidents will be examined.
• Devolved administrations in Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland will be responsible for implementation within their respective regions.

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