What we do look at when we say it's possible for one auto maker in the United States to end up in bankruptcy, is you would see first the direct employment at those automakers would essentially vanish or maybe just a fraction would remain.

NPR: Expert Examines Impact Of Big Three's Collapse

Elsewhere, the evolution of the U.S. auto industry marched on as Chrysler announced in a bankruptcy court filing its intention to cut 789 of its 3, 200 dealerships in the United States, calling the network antiquated and inefficient.

FORBES: Markets Brief

Government must act the part, as it has in the United States through necessary laws such as bankruptcy and patent rights, protections through courts, incentives such as tax abatements and enabling bodies such as the Small Business Administration.

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In less than three years, there have been 33 municipal bankruptcy filings across the United States.

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And the problem is not confined to the UK. During the past two years, 11 steel firms in the United States had to seek protection from their creditors and file for bankruptcy.

BBC: Q&A: Why did Corus cut jobs?

As a consequence, countless U.S. producers in downstream industries including firms that were once thriving in the United States and foreign markets have suffered severe losses, contraction, and bankruptcy.

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