Swiss gov't proposes optional referendum on closer ties with European Union

ZURICH, April 30 (Reuters) - The Swiss government suggested holding an optional referendum on the country's new agreement with the European Union, the cabinet said on Wednesday, making it easier to win support for the deal.

Under Swiss law a popular vote on a new treaty can be held if 50,000 signatures are gathered within 100 days, leaving it up to citizens to decide on the need for a vote.

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A simple majority of voters is needed for the optional referendum to pass, rather than a double majority of voters and of the country's 26 cantons under some compulsory referenda.

Switzerland and the European Union unveiled a new deal in December to reorganise relations between Bern and Brussels.

Covering everything from electricity to state aid, transport and freedom of movement, plus Bern's financial contribution to the bloc, the accord drew the EU and its fourth-biggest export market closer and gave added certainty to Swiss companies that rely heavily on the 27-nation alliance for business.

Under the proposal, the Swiss government will subject measures on bilateral relations, food safety, electricity and health to the public vote.

Parliament will ultimately decide the nature of the referendum and the course of the deliberations, the government said on Wednesday while stressing its support for the treaty with Brussels, citing the current global uncertainties.

"In view of the tense geopolitical situation, the Federal Council believes that it is strategically necessary for Switzerland to maintain stable, reliable relations with the EU and neighbouring countries to ensure stability, independence and prosperity," it said on Wednesday.

"The Swiss–EU package does not therefore represent a fundamental change of direction but a targeted step towards strengthening and further developing the tried-and-tested bilateral approach," it added.

Reporting by John Revill, editing by Ariane Luthi

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