UK moves closer to European time

Plans to move UK clocks forward in line with most of Europe could soon become a reality, as proposals are due to be published this week.

The "Lighter Later" campaign, initiated by the 10:10 climate change campaign, would move the clocks forward an hour to result in lighter evenings. Campaigners say the move could cut almost 500,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions each year.

The plans are also backed by the tourism industry, and they will form part of the Government's tourism strategy in the run-up to the 2012 Olympics.

A parliamentary Bill which called for the Government to investigate the costs and benefits of switching the clocks received MPs' backing in December.