IT services company Unisys has confirmed that it is laying off 100 staff in the UK as part of global cost-cutting measures.

Unisys will cut 1,300 from its worldwide operations, but the UK will be among the hardest areas hit. Roughly four per cent of its worldwide workforce will lose their jobs, but the UK workforce is being cut by seven per cent.

"The decision reflects the difficult economic climate and is part of the company's ongoing efforts to narrow its business focus to what it does best, simplify its business model, and reduce its expenses to drive revenue and earnings growth," Unisys said in a statement.

Trade union officials lamented the fact that the UK would bear the brunt of the layoffs.

"The high level of redundancies which have been announced shows again that it is quicker, cheaper and easier for companies like Unisys to cut jobs in the UK, " said Peter Skyte, national officer at trade union Unite.

Unisys expects its cost-cutting measures to shave $225m (£161m) off its annual operating costs.