UAW Said to Select GM to Set Pattern for Auto Agreement

The United Auto Workers, bargaining a new contract for U.S. automakers, is turning to General Motors Co. to set the pattern for wages and benefits for the U.S. industry, said three people familiar with the discussions.

UAW bargainers are seeking a large signing bonus and new work in U.S. factories in exchange for not increasing fixed labor costs at GM, Ford Motor Co. and Chrysler Group LLC, said one of the people, who asked not to be identified as revealing internal discussions. Negotiations at GM are farthest along and will continue through the weekend, the people said.