The meat processing industry would take cold comfort from non-answers given today on how the industry will cope under the burden of a carbon tax.

The Nationals Senator for New South Wales John Williams questioned Senator Penny Wong, who was representing the Minister for Climate Change and Energy Efficiency, on the risk to thousands of jobs when the carbon tax is introduced in July next year.

Senator Williams asked why the government was exposing the meat processing industry to costs its competitors in the United States and Brazil won’t face.

Senator Wong deflected the question and talked in general terms about the government’s jobs program, but not specifically about any assistance to the meat industry.

Asked why the government was denying industry proper consultation, the Minister again refused to give a direct answer.

Senator Williams said the meat processing industry, which is generally the largest employer in regional areas, faces a tough future under the Labor-Greens-Independent carbon tax.