The European Commission has expressed support for Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez“s initiative to eliminate seasonal clock changes, commonly known as daylight saving time. This endorsement comes as the European Union prepares for the upcoming transition to winter time, set to occur late on October 25, 2023.
During a recent meeting in Luxembourg attended by ministers from all 27 EU member states, Sanchez formally presented his request to conclude the practice of changing clocks twice a year. The proposal aligns with a broader public sentiment, as indicated by a record number of responses—approximately 4.6 million—received during a public consultation that highlighted a strong desire for change.
According to Dan Jorgensen, the EU Commissioner for Energy and Housing, while the issue of seasonal time changes may not dominate the EU”s political agenda, it remains a significant concern for millions of citizens across the continent. “This is a topic that many in the EU are advocating for,” Jorgensen noted during the meeting.
The Commission has decided to conduct further analysis in response to the requests from the member states regarding the proposal. Jorgensen emphasized the importance of understanding the implications of such a change before any decision is finalized.
In summary, the European Commission”s backing of Sanchez”s proposal marks a step towards potentially phasing out the seasonal clock changes that have been part of European life for decades. As the debate continues, the voices of European citizens will play a crucial role in shaping the final outcome.
