Clocks go back but Bedfordshire MP urges longer daylight saving

The suggestions have been adopted before, namely during World War One and World War Two, as an energy-saving measure.

It was named “Churchill Time” after Winston Churchill, who introduced the idea during World War Two.

In a letter to Secretary of State for Business and Skills, Ms Mayer said given the present climate emergency, moving back to “Churchill Time” would be an ideal way to cut energy use – and bills – once again.

She said it would also mean people could enjoy more time outdoors on autumn evenings, and it would give the hospitality and retail sectors a much-needed boost.

The MP said studies have found road collisions increased by 19% in the two weeks immediately after October’s clock change, as more people drive home in the dark, so a change to lighter evenings could also reduce accidents and any burden on the NHS.

Mayer said: “During World War Two 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.”