DETROIT -- A deal between General Motors and Chrysler to merge, which withered this fall when neither side could get financing for the transaction done, could be back on the table as part of a government bailout loan agreement, according to USA Today.

During the Senate committee hearing on loans to the auto industry on Thursday, Chrysler CEO Bob Nardelli said he would back merging with GM if it was a condition for getting aid.

GM CEO Rick Wagoner said he would reconsider the merger, but only with the support of the United Auto Workers.