Swiss upper house starts debate on new EU agreements package

On Monday, the Swiss Council of States began debating the new EU agreements package, known as 'Bilaterale III'. The session was open-ended, with three federal councilors present. The first day focused on whether to enter the proposal, with SVP and some Center and FDP members opposing, but a clear majority supported it. The debate also highlighted divisions within the Center and FDP on whether the agreements should require a double majority in a referendum. A protest by the SVP was planned outside the parliament building.