1897 Swiss referendums

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

1. Nohlen, D & Stöver, P (2010) Elections in Europe: A data handbook, p1905 ISBN 9783832956097
2. Nohlen & Stöver, p1891