Technology News:Telecoms firm to create 500 jobs

Some 500 new telecoms jobs are to be created in the UK by a major Chinese telecoms firm.

Chinese firm Huawei said it is looking to double its workforce over the next three years, taking on engineers, sales staff and managers, and also hoped to generate up to 1,500 subcontracting jobs in Basingstoke.

The firm also announced plans to open a formal UK graduate programme.

"We are committed to bringing more job opportunities to the UK, which is a key market for us," said Victor Zhang, chief executive of Huawei UK.

"As one of the leading technology vendors in the world, Huawei has been implementing its localisation strategy for many years. An increase in employees in our UK office will help us to provide more customised and innovative products and solutions for British telecom carriers, enterprise customers and consumers."

Andrew Finney, leader of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, said: "Basingstoke is home to companies from many countries but we are particularly pleased to play host to the UK's largest Chinese investor.

"Huawei not only provide excellent job opportunities but also support our local community. It is great to see them growing so strongly."

Huawei was first established in the UK in 2001 and relocated to Basingstoke in 2003, where it now employs around 500 staff.