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
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
Central Bank
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
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
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
^ abcdefNohlen, D & Stöver, P (2010) Elections in Europe: A data handbook, p1905 ISBN 9783832956097
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