'No evidence for clocks change': MP Christopher Pincher

Supporters say lighter evenings would reduce traffic fatalities and boost exercise

There is no compelling evidence to change the UK's clocks, a Staffordshire MP says.

The Daylight Saving Bill requires the government to look at the benefits of shifting the clocks forward by an hour for all or part of the year.

Tamworth MP Christopher Pincher told the Politics Show in the West Midlands he did not think there was a strong argument in favour of it.

Others have argued it is an important issue to look at.

'Limited hours'

Mr Pincher, a Conservative MP, said: "I think that there are some very big holes in the argument that has been put forward in favour.

"I don't see the argument's strong enough to warrant a change in the hours."

Karen Bradley, Conservative MP for Staffordshire Moorlands, said: "There are only a number of limited hours in the day.

"I think it's important that we look to see if we can use them more effectively."

If moving the clocks is found to benefit the whole of the UK, a three-year trial would follow, the bill proposes.

Supporters say having lighter evenings would reduce fatal road accidents, boost tourism revenues, promote sport and exercise and reduce energy use.

'Very beneficial'

Critics fear a later sunrise makes the school run more dangerous and presents problems for farmers and outdoor workers.

Colin Bryan, managing director at Staffordshire's Drayton Manor theme park, said: "I would say that it would add perhaps a 15 or 20% extra revenue to the company and certainly employ perhaps 1,500 hours in a week.

"So it would be very much beneficial for the local economy as well."

The bill has been put forward for detailed scrutiny in the Commons.