Oil and gas jobs are under threat in Aberdeen and Montrose, it is understood.

Hundreds of staff at Baker Hughes, a GE Company (BHGE) are believed to have been warned their positions are at risk.

Most are expected to keep their jobs, however, with dozens expected to go in the next few months.

GE Oil and Gas merged with Baker Hughes in July to create BHGE in a multi-billion pound deal.

A spokesman said: "BHGE has announced a proposal to reduce the cost structure of the business, including some workforce reductions and consolidation of manufacturing and service operations.

"This proposal comes after a review of how best to simplify, align and optimise our portfolio and operations to better meet the needs of our customers in a challenging market environment."

The majority of staff potentially affected by the move are believed to be former GE Oil and Gas employees.

"We don't make these proposals lightly but consider action to be necessary for the long-term health of the business, to position the company for future growth and to better meet the needs of our customers," the BHGE spokesman added.

The company employs around 70,000 people and operates in 120 countries with annual revenue of about £17.4bn.

In July, Shell announced plans to cut 90 jobs at its Scottish headquarters in Aberdeen.