A multiparty group of 126 lawmakers with a severe case of the summertime blues plans to introduce a bill to take advantage of longer daylight hours by moving the clock an hour ahead between April and October.

Japan tried it once before, just after World War II, but abandoned the switch to daylight-saving time in summer after about four years.

The proposed legislation, to be introduced as early as April, would usher in daylight-saving time in Japan for the first time in more than half a century.

Proponents say starting each day an hour earlier would save energy and expand after-work leisure time.

Japan experimented with ``summer time'' from 1948. But it was canceled after four years because of complaints about lack of sleep and other problems.

In 1995 and again in 1999, Upper House members tried to present a similar bill, but opposition from other lawmakers and a lack of support from business and labor circles killed such moves.

Opponents say the system doesn't suit Japan's hot, steamy summer weather. This time, proponents say their bill has a good chance of passing because the panel formed in August has members of both ruling and opposition parties in both houses of the Diet.

Support is also coming from business and labor, they say.

To alleviate concerns about increased overtime work and other inconveniences from longer daylight hours, the bill will require the government to take measures against longer workdays. It will also require a review after a certain period.

The bipartisan group comprises 63 Liberal Democrats, 53 Minshuto (Democratic Party of Japan) members, eight New Komeito members and two independents.(IHT/Asahi: February 24,2005)