Three referendums were held in Switzerland during 1908.[1] The first two were held on 5 July on amending the federal trade law and on banning absinthe.[1] Both were approved by a majority of voters and cantons.[1] The third was held on 25 October on adding article 24bis to the constitution, concerning hydroelectricity and electricity.[1] It was also approved by a majority of voters and cantons.[1]
Background
The referendum on banning Absinthe was a popular initiative, whilst the referendums on the trade law and amending the constitution were mandatory referendums.[1] Both types 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]
Results
Trade law amendment
Choice
Popular vote
Cantons
Votes
%
Full
Half
Total
For
232,457
71.5
19
5
21.5
Against
92,561
28.5
0
1
0.5
Blank votes
67,405
–
–
–
–
Invalid votes
1,849
–
–
–
–
Total
394,272
100
19
6
22
Registered voters/turnout
809,545
48.7
–
–
–
Source: Nohlen & Stöver
Absinthe ban
Choice
Popular vote
Cantons
Votes
%
Full
Half
Total
For
241,078
63.5
17
6
20
Against
138,669
36.5
2
0
2
Blank votes
15,451
–
–
–
–
Invalid votes
4,019
–
–
–
–
Total
399,217
100
19
6
22
Registered voters/turnout
809,545
49.3
–
–
–
Source: Nohlen & Stöver
Adding article 24bis to the constitution
Choice
Popular vote
Cantons
Votes
%
Full
Half
Total
For
304,923
84.4
19
5
21.5
Against
56,237
15.6
0
1
0.5
Blank votes
14,360
–
–
–
–
Invalid votes
15,314
–
–
–
–
Total
390,834
100
19
6
22
Registered voters/turnout
809,406
48.3
–
–
–
Source: Nohlen & Stöver
References
^ abcdefNohlen, D & Stöver, P (2010) Elections in Europe: A data handbook, pp1906–1907 ISBN 9783832956097
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