In a statement, bp said: “Last year, we began a multi-year programme to simplify and focus bp. We are strengthening our competitiveness and building in resilience as we lower our costs, drive performance improvement and play to our distinctive capabilities. 

“To deliver this, a series of programmes are in place in businesses throughout bp.

“Today, we have told staff across bp that the proposed changes that have been announced to date are expected to impact around 4,700 bp roles — these account for much of the anticipated reduction this year. We are also reducing our contractor numbers by 3000.

“As our transformation continues our priority will — of course — be safe and reliable operations and continuing to support our teams.”