On the last Sunday of October, the UK will adjust its clocks back by one hour, signaling the end of British Summer Time (BST) and the return to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). This year, the clocks will be set back on October 27, 2024, at 2 AM, granting everyone an extra hour in bed—a small consolation as the brighter days of summer fade away.
The practice of changing the clocks, known as daylight saving time, aims to maximize daylight hours during the summer months. The concept originated in the early 20th century, with advocates arguing that adjusting the clocks could help reduce energy consumption, extend daylight hours for leisure activities, and lower road accidents. However, the change has its critics as well. Many find it inconvenient to adjust the clocks twice a year, and concerns about safety in darker mornings have been raised. Additionally, some farmers worry about the impact on livestock routines, while others argue that in modern society, where many people spend time indoors, the benefits of daylight saving time may no longer hold.
The history of daylight saving time dates back to 1784 when Benjamin Franklin whimsically proposed the idea. It was later championed by William Willett in 1907, who campaigned for a structured change in time to better utilize daylight. Despite initial resistance, the Summer Time Act was passed in 1916, officially instituting the practice in the UK. Over the years, the debate surrounding daylight saving time has continued, influenced by various factors, including geographic location and lifestyle, keeping the discussion relevant even today.
