Update: ZDNet got a statement from a Microsoft spokesperson about the Skype London office shutdown, and clarified that about 220 workers will be laid off as a consequence of that decision.
Original story: Microsoft plans to close its Skype development offices in London, which will affect nearly 400 of its employees. Skype was founded in London in 2003 and Microsoft opened new offices for those workers in March 2013. Microsoft acquired Skype for $8.5 billion in 2011.
The Financial Times reports that a Microsoft spokesperson has confirmed the closure of the Skye London offices, because of a "decision to unify some engineering positions, potentially putting at risk a number of globally focused Skype and Yammer roles". The Skype London employees are currently in a "consultation process" with Microsoft, and the spokesperson added, "We are deeply committed to doing everything we can to help those impacted through the process".
Microsoft quietly announced earlier this year plans to lay off 2,850 employees by the end of June 2017, and the Financial Times report claims that the 400 Skype London employees will be a part of those numbers.
