The author of the article, Richard Spencer, describes changes in the Kingdom's policy that indicate it is taking steps to change its image from rigorous, patriarchal conservatism to a more open society in which women can take a much fuller role in the Kingdom's businesses and political affairs. "There is a simple political motive for these changes. Unlike neighbours such as Qatar and Abu Dhabi, where oil money is shared among tiny native populations, Saudi Arabia has 25m mouths to feed, many poor and 60pc of them under the age of 25. Newly arriving firms are encouraged to employ as many locals as possible – a tall order, given the religious priorities of the education system. "
