Senator CORMANN (2:35 PM) —My question is to the Minister representing the Minister for Resources and Energy, Senator Carr. I refer to Woodside’s statement today that the government’s new tax on gas will result in a $2½ billion increase in costs being passed on to consumers. Faced with this evidence, will the government now drop this harmful tax which will hurt families, businesses and pensioners in Western Australia?

Senator CARR (Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research) —I appreciate the question. I am representing the minister here on this matter. I would like to take that question on notice.

Senator CORMANN —Mr President, I ask a supplementary question. If the minister has to take that question on notice, perhaps he can also take on notice whether the government will continue to claim that a new tax which increases gas prices will be able to fight inflation.

Senator CARR (Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research) —I appreciate the question, and will take that on notice as well.