Switzerland ponders jail sentences and fines for those who turn the heat up in their homes to more than 19C, in preparation for the possibility that the country is forced to ration gas, informs largest Englis newspaper in Spain Euro Weekly News.
A spokesperson for the Federal Department of Finance, Markus Sporndli told news site Blick that if the country is forced to ration gas, it will have to take drastic action to ensure residents make the necessary savings.
He said that if rationing is introduced anyone who heats their homes above 19C could find themselves with a daily fine of Swiss francs 30 (EUR 30.70) and jail for persistent offenders.
Companies will also not go unpunished if they exceed their quota, with heating to be set at no higher than 19C.
To ensure that there is enough gas to go around, unessential such as saunas, swimming pools and radiant heaters would be need to be turned off.
The measures have been published in the Federal Law on National Economic Supply with the cantons of Switzerland being given until September 22 to submit any concerns.
Senior Police Officer Fredy Fassler has apparently advised the government only to implement laws that can be implemented and enforced, and with a «sense of proportion.»
Clearly, not every home can be checked and the police will have to rely on other measures to identify infringements.
Whilst there are debates about whether the measures are too dictatorial, there is a serious point in all of this. Everyone needs to make some savings now or face the prospect of rationing, which is forced savings.
Although the legislation that foresees jail sentences may be considered extreme, it may be the only option for governments if residents fail to make the necessary savings. It is in our hands, we can do this!