The Ministry of Labor denied statements that the National Human Rights Society had given the ministry a study which suggests abolishing the sponsorship laws of the Kingdom. Abdul Hameed Al-Humaid, Deputy Minister of Labor said in a statement that the ministry did not receive the study nor was any coordinated with the NHRS. “When the ministry receives the study it will very carefully look into its results and proposals with the relevant government bodies,” Al-Humaid said. Contrarily the NHRS has stated the study has been sent to the ministry and it has evidence the study was received. Saleh Al-Khatlan, Head of Monitoring and Follow-up at the NHRS said a copy of the study has been sent to the King, the Crown Prince, the Ministry of Labor and the Human Right Commission. Al-Khatlan said they have evidence the study had been received by the Ministry of Labor on July 9. Addtionally plans for the study had been discussed by the ministry and the NHRS at a joint symposium in December commemorating Human Rights Day. Al-Humaid said that the ministry is looking into forming joint companies for recruitment of expatriate workers. Plans have already been proposed to the Council of Ministers for the creation of the recruitment companies. According to Al-Humaid the ministry has adopted decisions protecting workers from mistreatment from employers as well as banning work visa trading. Rules punishing companies which do not pay their employees on time have also been instituted. – Asharq Al
