Swiss voters are going to polls to vote on a record nine different policy initiatives

Voting to approve or challenge new legislation has a long tradition in Switzerland, where the people are allowed the last word on government policy. But this time the sheer number of issues to be decided has raised questions over whether the system really is functioning as it should. The Swiss are deeply attached to their system of direct democracy - no-one would ever think of abandoning it. But Sunday's vote is likely to try the patience of many citizens. The nine issues to be decided include two separate proposals to abolish nuclear power - the only difference is the timescale. There is an extremely complicated law on changing the way health care is financed - many voters confess they do not understand this one at all. Then there is a proposal to ban cars throughout the country for four days each year, and a demand for more apprenticeship places. There is a government bill, already approved by parliament, to modernise and reduce the Swiss army.