Four referendums were held in Switzerland during 1903.[1] The first was held on 15 March on a federal law on tariffs, and was approved by 59.6% of voters.[1] The second, third and fourth were all held on 25 October concerning an amendment to the federal criminal law, a popular initiative on Swiss residents electing the National Council and an amendment to article 32bis of the constitution.[1] All three were rejected by voters.[1]

Background

The referendums on tariffs and the federal criminal law were optional referendums,[1] which required only a majority of the public vote.[2] The referendum on the changes to National Council elections was popular initiative and the referendum on the constitutional amendment was a mandatory referendum,[1] both of 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]

Results

Tariffs

Choice Votes %
For332,00159.6
Against225,12340.4
Blank votes3,529
Invalid votes2,216
Total562,869100
Registered voters/turnout768,12573.3
Source: Nohlen & Stöver

Criminal law

Choice Votes %
For117,69430.8
Against264,08569.2
Blank votes15,099
Invalid votes12,007
Total408,885100
Registered voters/turnout768,10553.2
Source: Nohlen & Stöver

National Council elections

Choice Popular vote Cantons
Votes % Full Half Total
For95,13124.4324
Against295,08575.616418
Blank votes13,460
Invalid votes5,363
Total409,03910019622
Registered voters/turnout768,10553.3
Source: Nohlen & Stöver

Amendment of article 32bis of the constitution

Choice Popular vote Cantons
Votes % Full Half Total
For156,77740.7404
Against228,09459.315618
Blank votes14,674
Invalid votes8,307
Total407,85210019622
Registered voters/turnout768,10553.1
Source: Nohlen & Stöver

References

  1. 1 2 3 4 5 6 Nohlen, D & Stöver, P (2010) Elections in Europe: A data handbook, p1906 ISBN 9783832956097
  2. 1 2 3 4 Nohlen & Stöver, p1891
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