“A GREAT BOON”

Dominion, Volume 21, Issue 118, 16 February 1928, Page 8

“A GREAT BOON”

SUMMER-TIME ACT MR. SIDEY REVIEWS EFFECTS Dominion Special Service. Christchurch, February 15. “I think the Summer Time Act has been a great boon to many people apart from those who take part in games, and has also made a big contribution to the health of the community.” In these words the sponsor of the Summer Time Act (Mr. T. K. Sidey), M.P.) reviewed the effects of the measure. “I think I am quite justified in expressing that opinion,” he said. “The actual amount of inconvenience has not been anything like that which was anticipated if measured by the opposition in the House of Representatives.” The opposition expressed by some farmers and farmers’ organisations was referred to by Mr. Sidey. “Of course,” he said, “that was to be expected. On the other hand, I have heard farmers voice the opinion that it has made little or no difference to them, and when a farmer does not find that it has inconvenienced him it may be taken to imulv that Ins view is favourable.” Opposition Expected. Mr. Sidey is quite prepared to face strong opposition when he brings the measure up again next session.” I am quite certain that some of the farmers will oppose it again, and so will some of those country members who sunported it last session. They will be influenced by the combined protests that have been made in their respective constituencies, and by the fact that the elections take place this year. I am not in a position to forecast just what will happen to the Bill during this coming session. At all events, I hope that manv of the country people will recognise that their employment enables them to get the benefit of the fresh air, and that they will feel disposed to make a little concession in the interests of those who are less favoured in this respect.” Period of Duration. Mr. Sidey also expressed the opinion that the Act could come into force a little earlier than it did.” The period ot duration is a little uncertain,” he said, “though the amount of daylight in New Zealand at the beginning and closing is greater than during the same period in England, that is in the mornings.” Commenting on the date at which the operations of the Act should cease, he stated that the original Bill provided that the summer time should end in the first week in February. When the ine.-i--surt was before the House he agreed tc an extension to the middle of February. I'he majority of the members, however, were in favour of its continuing in effect until March 1. "The opponents of the Bill also voted for the extra extension in the hope that the longer period might give r'sc to more inconvenience which would help them in their opposition,” said Mi Sidev. “However, I think it will be found that there has been little incon venience caused by the extension.”