MPs approve a ‘transit tax’ for foreign drivers; Swiss drug regulator refutes US claims about the risk of paracetamol use in pregnancy; and more news in our Friday roundup.
Move toward taxing foreign motorists gets traction in the parliament
On Thursday, The Council of States has unanimously accepted a motion submitted by deputy Marco Chiesa, who wants tourists using Swiss motorways for transit to be subject to a ‘transit tax’.
It would apply to vehicles entering Switzerland from a neighbouring country and exiting in another, without stopping on the way.
The tax would be based on traffic density, time of day, and day of the week, to encourage vehicles to travel at certain times rather than others.
The objective of this move is to achieve a better flow of traffic on the national road network, particularly on north-south routes.
Swiss medical authority refutes Trumps claim about paracetamol
Drug regulatory body Swissmedic took note that the US government suspects a link between the administration of paracetamol during pregnancy and the occurrence of autism in children.
However, “in the many years since it was first authorised, no scientific evidence has emerged of any link between the administration of paracetamol in pregnancy and autism in children,” the agency said on Thursday.
“This assessment is consistent with the evaluations of other regulatory authorities worldwide and the opinions of the medical community. The benefit-risk balance for these medicines continues to remain positive,” it added.
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Government wants to welcome 20 children from Gaza to Switzerland
Negotiations are underway with Israel to obtain the country’s permission for 20 injured or sick children from Gaza Strip to travel to Switzerland for treatment.
The departments of justice, the interior, and defence are also involved in planning this project, with the federal administration considering where these children and their companions could be accommodated in Switzerland.
Some cantons have already offered to host these groups.
However, without the approval of the Israeli authorities, no one can leave the Gaza Strip, at least at this point.
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Ahead this weekend: Referendums
On Sunday, September 28th, Swiss voters will have their say on two controversial issues: the electronic identification card (e-ID), and the rental imputed value.
You can read more about them here:
READ ALSO: What’s at stake in Switzerland’s September referendums?
At the same time, residents of several cantons and municipalities will also cast their ballots on a number of important local issues.
If you have any questions about life in Switzerland, ideas for articles or news tips for The Local, please get in touch with us at news@thelocal.ch
