ITV begins axing 25 publicity jobs

ITV has begun axing about a third of the staff in its programme publicity department as part of a cost-cutting restructure.

Around 25 jobs spread across London, Manchester and Leeds are understood to be going in the 75-strong department, with the Leeds press office among the hardest hit.

Staff were told to re-apply for posts last month and began to hear news of their fate on Tuesday. A spokeswoman said consultation was still underway with some employees.

Mark Gallagher, ITV's group director of corporate affairs, is thought to have ordered a shakeup as part of changes across corporate communications.

The broadcaster, which is working to ambitious cost-cutting targets, is also expected to make cutbacks in its sales team after a review of operations by Boston Consulting Group.