Environment Minister George Heyman is defending the first of four planned annual increases in B-C’s carbon tax even though it pushed soaring gas prices even higher. Heyman was asked during an event today in North Vancouver how the increase fits in with the N-D-P government’s promise to make life more affordable for British Columbians. He says the 1.2 cent a litre increase isn’t as steep as other jumps at the gas pump that had nothing to do with the government. Heyman adds other measures — including the elimination of the Medical Services Plan and a program to lower daycare costs — will help cut the cost of living for British Columbians.