Mr. Minder's message, which he has delivered for more than four years, has fallen on fertile ground, particularly since the government was forced to bail out UBS, the country's largest bank, in 2008.

WSJ: Swiss Back Executive-Pay Controls

Ms Bond told the court she had seen the animal's minder trying in vain to hold on to him before the horse broke away.

BBC: Carole Jane Bullett inquest told of 'agitated' horse

Switzerland's proposals, developed by lawmaker Thomas Minder, have drawn fierce criticism from the country's business community, including the influential Economiesuisse and Swissmem lobbies.

WSJ: Swiss Back Executive-Pay Controls