1908 Swiss referendums

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

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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

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Trade law amendment

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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

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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

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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

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  1. ^ a b c d e f Nohlen, D & Stöver, P (2010) Elections in Europe: A data handbook, pp1906–1907 ISBN 9783832956097
  2. ^ a b c Nohlen & Stöver, p1891