The very next day the Saudis announced they would make up the shortfall from Libya's withdrawal from the export market.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: The new Middle East

Part of the answer lies in the government's steady withdrawal from the housing market.

ECONOMIST: Most Britons want their own homes, and green spaces too

But because he was willing to step into the spotlight, the withdrawal of Vioxx from the market looks like part of a systemic failure to properly weigh the risks and benefits of drugs.

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But GM will have fewer brands and dealers, and rivals will be eager to exploit its withdrawal from parts of the market.

ECONOMIST: The bankruptcy of General Motors

"The fundamental issue remains the withdrawal of many lenders from the mortgage market over the past year and the reluctance of new participants to play a meaningful role in delivering finance to potential homebuyers, " said Rics chief economist Simon Rubinsohn.

BBC: Personal debt dips for first time

Merck is facing thousands of lawsuits related to the withdrawal of its painkiller Vioxx, pulled from the market last year.

FORBES: Magazine Article

With a balanced committee membership and a fair hearing for both sides, the advisory committee voted overwhelming in favor of either removing Avandia from the market or severely restricting its usage (of 33 members, 12 voted for withdrawal and 10 for severe restrictions).

FORBES: Steven Nissen: The Hidden Agenda Behind The FDA's New Avandia Hearings