Swiss rejects vote on subsidy for farmers who let cows horn grow

Swiss voters look set to reject a proposal to subsidise farmers who let their cows and goats grow horns naturally after a campaign that sparked a national debate on animal rights, Swiss broadcaster SRF said on Sunday.

The initiative to preserve "the dignity of livestock" was led by farmer Armin Capaul, a self-described rebel who began his campaign nine years ago after "listening" to his herd.

Preliminary results at mid-day, after polls closed, showed 53 per cent against with 47 in favour, SRF said. The government opposed the motion which would have inscribed subsidies in the constitution.