Senator HUMPHRIES (Australian Capital Territory) (14:49): My question is also to Senator Wong representing the Minister for Climate Change and Energy Efficiency. I refer the minister to Minister Combet's remarks in the House yesterday when he said: … the government is exploring a number of options for delivering that assistance, including through tax cuts. In addition, I can inform the House that all 3.4 million maximum-rate and part-rate pensioners— Senator Conroy interjecting— Senator Abetz interjecting— The PRESIDENT: Senator Humphries, the exchange between Senator Conroy and Senator Abetz meant that I did not catch part of your question. Senator HUMPHRIES: I am quoting Minister Combet's remarks in the House yesterday: … the government is exploring a number of options for delivering that assistance, including through tax cuts. In addition, I can inform the House that all 3.4 million maximum-rate and part-rate pensioners will receive assistance. Noting the government's concession that it will be necessary to compensate fixed income earners for the massive increase in the cost of living as a result of the carbon tax, I ask: how will the government compensate those who do not receive a government benefit and generally do not pay income tax such as self-funded retirees?