Special uses of the past simple

You have previously seen how the past simple is used to talk about unreal situations:

    If we had more money, we could improve the facilities for young people in 
    the area.
    If only the government spent more money in local transport.
    I wish there was more interest in helping the homeless in this city.

Here are some other ways of talking about unreal, desired situations using the past simple.

It's (about/high) time...

    It's time you had a holiday.
    It's high time the politicians sttoped talking and started doing something.
    It's about time you grew up and started facing up to your responsibilities.

Would rather +  subject + past simple


    I'd rather you didn't smoke while I'm eating.
    I'd rather Kate didn't work in the evenings.
    I'd rather I didn't have to work in the evenings.

When would rather is not followed by a subject you do not use the past simple. Instead you use an infinitive.

    The government would rather spend the money on health care than 
    helping the elderly.
    I'd rather not work in the evenings.