That will trigger layoffs, decreased consumer spending and reduced business spending on new plant and equipment.

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The consumer version of the Hummer H3 and H3T pickup are assembled at the GM plant in Shreveport, La.

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Economists say fears of radiation dampen consumer confidence and extend as far south as Tokyo, which is 250km from the Fukushima plant.

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After tens of billions of euros have been spent on these systems, raising consumer electricity prices in the process, not a single coal or gas-fired power plant has been taken off line.

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