Well, cuteydog, my intention was in no way to remind you of yesteryears. What I imply is (as you know the history), the arabs were working as traders in South Africa and most of the laws some how crept into the modern system. You are right, however this is not the topic.
What people have to understand is that British companies are also doing it. There may be many valid reasons for it. Region specific staff / culture specific staff requirements. HR is a very specialized department in large organizations. Just making rumours your base because you(I don't mean literally you but any person in question) are not getting through a company is making a laughing stock of yourself. Plus, David already believes others with a different prespective are all fools.