UAW calls off American Axle rally

[Omaha Steve]

http://www.mlive.com/newsflash/index.ssf?/base/business-15/1208377481281380.xml&storylist=autonews2

4/16/2008, 6:33 p.m. EDT
By DEE-ANN DURBIN
The Associated Press

DETROIT (AP) — The United Auto Workers union on Wednesday called off a planned rally in support of striking workers at American Axle and Manufacturing Holdings Inc., saying it was making progress in talks with the auto supplier.

The rally was scheduled to be held this Friday in downtown Detroit. Wendy Thompson, a labor activist and former president of a UAW local in Detroit that represents American Axle workers, said UAW officials told workers that the union is making progress so the rally was delayed.

Several messages seeking comment were left with the UAW Wednesday.

American Axle spokeswoman Renee Rogers said negotiations were ongoing Wednesday evening and were expected to continue Thursday.

The UAW, which represents 3,600 workers at American Axle, has been on strike against the company's five U.S. plants for nearly two months. General Motors Corp. is American Axle's largest customer, and the strike has affected 30 GM plants as well as a plant in Indiana that makes Hummers under contract.

The UAW has been considering a new contract offer from American Axle since Saturday. American Axle wants to cut wages in order to become competitive with other parts makers.