IBM refuses to quash job loss rumours

IBM has refused to comment on speculation it is about to lay off up to 15,000 workers, with the UK earmarked to be one of the worst hit regions.

Among those fearing for their jobs will be 3,000 staff at Big Blue's Greenock site in Scotland and others north of the border in Edinburgh and Glasgow.

It is expected that IBM will make cuts following intense shareholder pressure on the back of some rocky results. It's believed the company's Global Services division will be among the worst hit.

A report in The Scotsman newspaper claims a voluntary redundancy programme may already be under way.

However, a spokesman for IBM refused to be drawn on the specific details of such speculation, while admitting the company is looking at a broader restructuring.

"IBM is constantly re-balancing its workforce to meet evolving customer needs," said the spokesman. "IBM is engaging in consultations with employees on how to move decision-making closer to our clients and become more productive and faster in the marketplace."

"Further to this, IBM declines to discuss specifics nor comment on rumour and speculation," he added.