Abstract: The present invention provides an electric switch having a linearly moveable actuator and a switch mechanism including a first electric contact which acts, in use, as a fulcrum, a second electric contact, and a contact bridging member; and constructed and arranged whereby the member is moveable slideably over the fulcrum and in so doing pivots thereabout whereby to bring the leading or trailing end of the member into or out of contact with the second electric contact.The switch can be constructed to be double pole or single pole and double throw or single throw. It can be extended to be multithrow.Contact bridging members which can be used include flat and arcuate members.Abutments for engagement with the actuator can be provided by a depression in the contact bridging member or outwardly struck portions thereof.