The idea of re-indentifying the earth is not new.
From table B.4 of the 14th IEE Regs., 1966:
:
Colour of core of rubber-insulated flexible cable, or rubber- or p.v.c.-insulated flexible cord other than a parallel-twin p.v.c.-insulated cord (See Regulation B.58).
Phase R of 3-phase a.c. circuit: Red
Phase Y of 3-phase a.c. circuit: White (or, in a 3-core flexible cable, black with a white sleeve at the terminations)
Phase B of 3-phase a.c. circuit: Blue (or, in a 3-core flexible cable, green with a blue sleeve at the terminations)