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1897 Swiss referendums

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Three referendums were held in Switzerland during 1897.[1] The first was held on 28 February on a federal law establishing a Central Bank, and was rejected by a majority of voters.[1] The second and third were held on 11 July concerning an amendment to article 24 of the constitution and on legislation on potentially harmful foodstuffs and stimulants.[1] Both were approved by a majority of voters and cantons.[1]

Background

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The referendums on the constitutional amendment and the foodstuffs legislation were mandatory referendums,[1] which required a double majority; a majority of the popular vote and majority of the cantons.[2] The decision of each canton was based on the vote in that canton.[2] Full cantons counted as one vote, whilst half cantons counted as half.[2] The Central Bank referendum was an optional referendum,[1] which required only a majority of the public vote.[2]

Results

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Central Bank

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Choice Votes %
For 195,764 43.3
Against 255,984 56.7
Blank votes 8,198
Invalid votes 2,197
Total 462,143 100
Registered voters/turnout 715,342 64.6
Source: Nohlen & Stöver

Amendment to article 24 of the constitution

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Choice Popular vote Cantons
Votes % Full Half Total
For 156,102 63.5 14 4 16
Against 89,561 36.5 5 2 6
Blank votes 25,444
Invalid votes 6,077
Total 277,184 100 19 6 22
Registered voters/turnout 716,883 38.7
Source: Nohlen & Stöver

Legislation on foodstuffs and stimulants

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Choice Popular vote Cantons
Votes % Full Half Total
For 162,250 65.1 16 5 18.5
Against 86,955 34.9 3 1 3.5
Blank votes 24,023
Invalid votes 4,624
Total 277,852 100 19 6 22
Registered voters/turnout 716,883 38.8
Source: Nohlen & Stöver

References

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  1. ^ a b c d e f Nohlen, D & Stöver, P (2010) Elections in Europe: A data handbook, p1905 ISBN 9783832956097
  2. ^ a b c d Nohlen & Stöver, p1891