The BAA has issued this statement.

“The UK has a thriving amateur astronomy community who regularly observe the night sky in the evenings.

Many of these amateurs share their knowledge at organised public outreach events across the whole country every year. These evening events are attended by people of all ages and backgrounds. For many youngsters it will be their first experience of science outside the classroom and for some it will be a pleasurable and formative experience that may encourage them into a science-based education and career, something the government is keen to promote.

By delaying the time at which it becomes dark enough to observe the night sky, the proposals in the Daylight Saving Bill will have a detrimental effect on these outreach activities and reduce their benefit to society.

We encourage those deciding on the proposed Daylight Saving Bill to take this into account.”

Members may wish to write to their MP to make their own representations.