Front stop switch assembly

A clip broke on a wire connected to the clutch side of my handle bar. I'm pretty sure I identified it as a front stop switch assembly and I can just order a new one and swap it out.

What I'm having problems with is finding out what it does. I looked all over the interwebs so I thought I'd throw it out here. The bike seems to run fine and I didn't notice any electrical malfunctions, but just wanted to see if the thing is safe to ride.

Thanks once again guys.

1982 xs400 maxim dohc.

I believe this prevent's the bike starting WITHOUT the clutch pulled in.

On my 82, I disabled this switch as well as the switch on the kick stand which does the same thing.

You can download the manual's here. The ELECTRICAL PDF has the wiring schematic's