UAW Strike Spreads; 17 Plants Could Be Idled

General Motors Corp.’s battle with the United Auto Workers union in Flint, Mich., entered its fifth day with no signs of resolution. The Flint strike by 3,400 UAW members, who make hoods, fenders and other parts, spread to other plants. So far, six GM assembly plants have closed and 16,550 workers have been idled. At Flint, the world’s largest auto maker says the UAW has refused to follow through on promises to reduce work rules and improve efficiency. The union says GM reneged on an agreement to invest $300 million in the plant, adding new equipment and jobs. As many as 17 assembly plants, or 60% of GM’s North American capacity, could be idled by parts shortages as early as Monday, analysts say. That would cut profit by an estimated $300 million a week. GM shares fell 81 cents to close at $73.19 on the NYSE.