BT hit by rumours over headquarters move

British Telecom is reportedly quitting its London headquarters, threatening up to 2,000 jobs.

British Telecom is reportedly quitting its London headquarters, threatening up to 2,000 jobs.

The surprise decision comes just months after the firm spent millions giving the 20-year-old building a facelift.

As many as 2,500 staff are based at the centre, which is estimated to be worth £100 million sterling, including the top 200 decision makers.

An e-mail from personnel director Mr John Steele, which was leaked to the Mirror, says the move to a new headquarters over the next 12 to 18 months will mean employing 400 to 500 "at the end of the restructuring process".

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The move is part of a massive shake-up at BT, which is struggling with a £30 billion debt.

The company raised nearly £5 billion yesterday by selling its businesses in Japan and Spain.

BT revealed plans earlier this year to raise up to £2 billion through the sale of hundreds of properties.

Management said the BT Centre would not be included.

PA