Siemens Threatens to Move Factories

German technology giant Siemens, under its new chief, Klaus Kleinfeld, has increased pressure on its employees after announcing that one of its largest groups, VDO Automotive could move its location overseas to save on labor costs. That could affect up to 1,600 jobs in Würzburg, the subsidiary's base. Management has already said that by the end of 2007 most of Siemens' production could be moved to the Czech Republic, an employees' representative said Monday. The company has come up against fierce criticism from employees and the IG Metall labor union for considering the move.