But his former bosses disagreed with the decision and are challenging it on the basis that Nicholson's beliefs about climate change are not philosophical but scientific, and are therefore not covered by the legislation.

CNN: UK executive claims he was dismissed for being green

Because the legislation is so broadly defined, "scientific exchanges" could not be impeded by the President, even in time of war.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: Center For Security Policy

Jude and arch-rivals Medtronic ( MDT) and Boston Scientific ( BSX) have also been hurt by investor fears that health care-reform legislation would permanently squeeze profits.

FORBES: St. Jude's Emerges From Shadow Of Health Care Reform

Many of these laboratory-designed drugs have now been banned - and the new coalition government is planning legislation to temporarily ban new legal highs as they emerge on the market before scientific research into the effects has been completed.

BBC: Drugs laws around the world

The legislation imposes a general ban on the use of great apes, such as chimpanzees and gorillas, in scientific tests.

BBC: EU tightens rules on welfare of lab animals