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February 6, 2009 1:53 PM

The Pope's Radio Station Bans Novartis CEO Vasella

By
Jim Edwards
(MoneyWatch)  Vatican Radio has banned Novartis CEO Daniel Vasella from its airwaves after it learned Novartis makes contraceptives.

Vasella had applied to be a Vatican Radio "Commentator of the Week," according to Reuters, and the station accepted. But the invite was withdrawn after the Pope's people learned Novartis makes birth control. Vatican Radio said on its website:
The approach of the Vatican to artificial contraception cannot be subject to the smallest doubt.
Reuters:
The broadcaster had asked Novartis Chief Executive Daniel Vasella to be its "Commentator of the Week" in February, but said it had now decided to fill the slot internally.
Pop quiz: Which contraceptive does Novartis make? The drug is not listed on its web site.

Answer: Its generic unit, Sandoz, plans to make a version of Bayer's Yaz. Image by Flickr user Roblisameehan, CC.

© 2009 CBS Interactive Inc.. All Rights Reserved.
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