Saudi king reduces salaries, perks for senior officials

Saudi Arabia's King Salman is reducing the salaries and benefits of senior government officials as lower oil prices continue to pinch the kingdom's economy.
The royal decree published today orders a 20 per cent reduction in the salaries of ministers, among them the king's successors- Crown Prince and Interior Minister Mohammed bin Nayef, and Deputy Crown Prince and Defense Minister Mohammed bin Salman.
The decree also includes a 15 per cent reduction in benefits toward a car and housing for members of the country's highest consultative body, the Shura Council.
The decision comes as the government tries to rein in spending and boost the appeal of private sector jobs amid complaints of unemployment and low wages.

The changes are to start with the Islamic new year, which falls on October 1.