Switzerland votes in favour of capping immigration into the country

2014-02-09 62

Swiss voters have said yes to a limit on immigrants living and working in their country.

In a referendum held on Sunday, 50.3% voted in favour of strict quotas and an end to “mass immigration.”

The proposal was put forward by the right-wing Swiss People’s Party.

It will mean the country abandoning its free movement of people treaty with the European Union

This could put at risk Switzerland’s other deals with the EU including on trade.

Supporters of the quotas say the free movement has put pressure on housing and public services and brought down wages for local people.

The Swiss government and business leaders argue it has been key to the country’s economic success.

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