Daylight Saving Time

That the Parliament notes reports that the British Sleep Society has recommended the abolition of Daylight Saving Time (DST) in favour of maintaining Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) year-round, citing potential health and wellbeing benefits; understands that the current twice-yearly clock changes, initially introduced as temporary measures during the First and Second World Wars, have become entrenched in UK timekeeping since the British Summer Time Act of 1972; further understands that recent studies, including those by the British Sleep Society, highlight what it sees as the negative impacts of DST on sleep health, emphasising that morning light is essential for synchronising natural body clocks, supporting healthy sleep patterns and, improving mood and overall physical health; considers that permanent DST in winter could lead to significant health risks, particularly in northern regions of Scotland, where winter sunrises could be delayed until as late as 9.45 am, potentially reducing exposure to natural morning light that is essential for circadian alignment and wellbeing; believes that adopting permanent Standard Time could reduce health risks associated with disrupted sleep patterns and contribute to a more consistent daily routine for schoolchildren, workers and vulnerable populations; calls on the UK Government to consider abolishing the twice-yearly clock changes, and supports the British Sleep Society’s recommendation of permanent GMT for the benefit of public health and wellbeing across the UK.