Too bad for your case. I'm not in O&G.

Since this is my first employment and I have been attaching to MNC, let me enlighten you with MNC's working environment.
Every business unit has their own allocated salary budget, HR will base on the budget and propose a salary proposal to the line managers. After everyone is agreeable only we will communicate to the candidate. Sometimes, the candidate will negotiate, we will then relook into the proposal again see if it is on high end. If it is, we will not proceed further.
Get the point now? What for we want to feel jealous? Do you know almost everyone in the organisation earns more than me? I'm one of those with the lowest salary? Do I need to envy or commit suicide because of this? No, I understand the difference in my job nature and years of experience. Nothing to argue and everyone has a price tag.
Who prepares salary for HR people? Does that even matter? HR is also a business unit and has an allocated salary budget, so our colleagues will pay as what we deserve for. If we think it is too low, we can choose not to accept at the first place.
I hope the above enlightens you a bit. To be honest, your assumption above shows that your exposure in working life is still shallow or/and your HR really acts in such a manner.
i like your outlook and intake on things, i agree with what you say and also your insights.. we should not always compare around.. be greatful and also content with what you have.. who knows, there are other better things planned for all of us.. salary isn't everything.. salary reflects on time spent on the job, stress, risk, responsibility and skill.. i wish good luck to all of you out there.. =)