WorldCom plans to cut some 1,000 jobs in Europe as part of a
reorganisation of its telecommunication operations and those of its
data network subsidiary UUNet Technologies.
According to a statement from the company, the decision stems from
reduced capital expenditures anticipated from the completion of
WorldCom's international networks and an attempt to streamline
operations across countries.
"We will not disclose a detailed number before we disclose that to
the employees," said a company spokesman.
The company would not specify in which countries the job cuts might
take place, but said the distribution of redundancies was dependent
on a consultation process with employee councils required by law in
the various countries. However, some newspapers have speculated
that the company may make a substantial number of job cuts in the
UK.
WorldCom posted lower second quarter net income for its data
services division, and a loss in its long-distance business, citing
pricing pressures and stiff competition.
The company announced plans to lay off some 6,000 US employees
earlier this year.