A group of centre-right and rightwing politicians have called for more debate on alternative medicine ahead of next month's nationwide vote on the issue.

The small committee say a yes vote to plans to promote the use of alternative medicines would trigger further demand for non-conventional therapies and lead to additional costs for the health system.

All treatments had to be effective, appropriate and reasonably priced, they told a news conference on Tuesday.

Other opponents include the rightwing Swiss People's Party and the youth wing of the centre-right Radical Party.

Supporters want methods including homeopathy, holistic and herbal therapies to be paid for by compulsory health insurance. They reject concerns it will result in a further financial strain on social security.

Four years ago the interior ministry struck these treatments off the list amid increasing health costs. A nationwide vote on May 17 will ask whether alternative therapies should be enshrined in the law.

Such medicines enjoy high popularity. Most political parties have come out in favour of boosting the legal status of such methods.


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