Headline: Tech layoffs surge as Sunak warns AI threatens entry-level jobs

Why this matters: Rapid AI adoption may reduce job opportunities for young workers and reshape labour markets globally.

Date: 24 April 2026 Tags: Business, Technology, UK

Summary:

• Rishi Sunak warns AI is reducing entry-level job opportunities.

• Meta to cut around 8,000 jobs, about 10% of workforce.

• Microsoft plans voluntary redundancies affecting about 8,750 employees.

• Both companies are increasing investment in artificial intelligence development.

• Meta also freezing around 6,000 vacant roles as part of restructuring.

• Rising costs linked to AI infrastructure, including data centres, driving spending increases.

• Sunak says firms can grow without expanding workforce due to AI efficiency gains.

• Entry-level roles in sectors like law and accountancy increasingly affected.

• Sunak proposes shifting tax from labour to corporate profits driven by AI productivity.

• Experts warn AI could significantly reshape global employment patterns.

What’s next: Governments and businesses may face pressure to adapt policies to balance AI growth with employment protection.