Swiss reject guaranteed basic income plan

About 75 percent of Swiss voters said 'no' to a plan that guarantees a basic income for everyone.

It's the first time such a referendum has been held.

The proposal would give every adult a monthly pay of about $2500 US dollars, no matter how much they work.

But opponents, including the government, say it would cost too much and weaken the economy.

Many voters weren't keen on it either.

Melanie, who voted no to the initiative, said: "I find that it is a real danger that once that people just get their basic needs covered the society doesn't feel responsible anymore to look after the ones who can't really handle the situation on their own."

Despite the loss, supporters of the plan say it's a step in the right direction.

Che Wagner, basic income Switzerland spokesman, said: "I think in the future, a basic income, an introduction of a basic income scheme is inevitable, it is the direction we have to go anyway, because of the technology and digitalisation, the question is how, how we are going to introduce it, how we "de-couple" work and income on an existential basis."

They believe it promotes human dignity and public service.