Radical Party rejects initiative to reduce immigration
The Radical Party has voted to reject the people's initiative calling for the number of foreigners in Switzerland to be limited to 18 per cent.
At their delegate meeting in canton Vaud, they voted overwhelmingly in favour of a no-vote in the September 24 referendum. One hundred and eighty six delegates voted for a no-vote while just seven votes were placed in support of the initiative.
Vreni Spoerry, a member of the Senate, said that due to economic reasons, the party should not support the initiative.
Despite the fact that some regions do face problems in light of an increase in the number of foreigners, Spoerry said that imposing a quota does not constitute a solution to the problem and would have grave consequences.
Supporters of the initiative argue that it is “eurocompatible”. They believe that the Swiss should be allowed to choose who they want to enter the country, taking into account Switzerland’s economic needs.
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