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]
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]
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