Oil services firm Aker plans to cut hundreds of jobs in Aberdeen and London, it has emerged.

Aker expects to shed around 280 of its 2500-strong permanent UK workforce in the coming months.

The Norwegian company described it as a "tough but necessary" step and said it would help the firm "stay competitive".

It comes as British Gas owner Centrica reveals plans to cut 3000 jobs worldwide in a bid to save £200m.

David Clark, Aker Solutions' regional head for Europe and Africa, said: "These are tough but necessary measures to help ensure we stay competitive during a challenging time for our industry."

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