British-based mobile operator Vodafone accused Egyptian authorities on Thursday of using its network to broadcast pro-government text messages, as telecom companies become increasingly entangled in the protests engulfing the nation.

Vodafone Tuesday said it would cut 500 jobs in Britain as a part of an ongoing plan to save about $1.5 billion in operating costs. Vodafone, the world's largest mobile phone producer, currently has 10,000 employees in Britain, The Daily Telegraph said.

Business News In Brief TELECOMS Mobile phone giant Vodafone has promoted two directors to run its emerging markets division and appointed a new UK chief executive, in the latest move by chief executive Vittorio Colao.

Vodafone announced the reorganization of its business structure and top management Tuesday, splitting in two its emerging-markets division and appointing a new boss for Europe.

By Sarah Arnott Vittorio Colao, the new chief executive of Vodafone, has made his first big mark on the business with a package of personnel and organisational changes that include the departure of one of his rivals in the race for the top job.