Q&A: Automakers Bailout?

Q&A: Automakers Bailout?

	Why are the auto companies asking for the government's help?

	What are GM, Ford and Chrysler asking for?

	How would this auto bailout differ from the government's bailout of the nation's banks?

	Why is Congress considering a bailout for the auto industry?

	Would the government play a role in a merger between GM and Chrysler?

	Didn't the automakers receive government funding earlier this year?

	Can the auto industry expect help from the incoming Obama administration?

	If the government helps the companies, what will taxpayers get in return?

Would the government play a role in a merger between GM and Chrysler?

GM said on Friday, Nov. 7, 2008, it had suspended talks with Cerberus Capital Management, the majority owner of Chrysler. The companies held private talks because GM reportedly coveted Chrysler's $11 billion in cash, but any deal would have required government financing.

Discussions with the Treasury Department were unsuccessful.