Briefs

Christmas in sights

Retailers say compensation payments for the tax could help boost Christmas sales, but opposition to the tax may encourage people to save more. The Australian National Retailers Association chief executive, Margy Osmond, said much of the uncertainty around the carbon price may lessen.

ALUMINIUM

Eyes on electricity

Alumina Ltd said the government's carbon pricing scheme's effect on the local aluminium industry will depend on the treatment of electricity. It would be important to maintain an adequate level of permits while overseas competitors adopted a comparable carbon price.

OIL

Caltex fights on

Caltex Australia will fight for full compensation to offset the effect of the carbon pricing scheme. Caltex will receive transitional assistance for 94.5 per cent of the carbon price but says it needs 100 per cent to maintain international competitiveness.