Three referendums were held in Switzerland during 1894.[1] The first was held on 4 March on a federal resolution to amend the constitution regarding trade and commerce, and was rejected by a majority of voters and cantons.[1] The second was held on 3 June on a popular initiative on the right to work, and was rejected by a majority of voters and all cantons.[1] The third was held on 4 November 1894 on a popular initiative on a partial contribution to tariffs from the cantons, and was also rejected by a majority of voters and cantons.[1]
Background
The referendums on the right to work and tariffs were popular initiatives, whilst the referendum on trade was a mandatory referendum.[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 and commerce
Choice
Popular vote
Cantons
Votes
%
Full
Half
Total
For
135,713
46.1
7
1
7.5
Against
158,492
53.9
12
5
14.5
Blank votes
21,454
–
–
–
–
Invalid votes
1,048
–
–
–
–
Total
316,707
100
19
6
22
Registered voters/turnout
676,854
46.8
–
–
–
Source: Nohlen & Stöver
Right to work
Choice
Popular vote
Cantons
Votes
%
Full
Half
Total
For
75,880
19.8
0
0
0
Against
308,289
80.2
19
6
22
Blank votes
5,865
–
–
–
–
Invalid votes
1,993
–
–
–
–
Total
392,027
100
19
6
22
Registered voters/turnout
680,731
57.6
–
–
–
Source: Nohlen & Stöver
Tariffs
Choice
Popular vote
Cantons
Votes
%
Full
Half
Total
For
145,462
29.3
7
3
8.5
Against
350,639
70.7
12
3
13.5
Blank votes
5,524
–
–
–
–
Invalid votes
1,239
–
–
–
–
Total
502,864
100
19
6
22
Registered voters/turnout
690,250
72.9
–
–
–
Source: Nohlen & Stöver
References
^ abcdeNohlen, D & Stöver, P (2010) Elections in Europe: A data handbook, p1904 ISBN 9783832956097