Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has issued a stark warning to Alberta voters, cautioning that separatist movements promoting a vote on independence are engaging in a 'dangerous bluff.' Drawing on his experience as the former governor of the Bank of England during the Brexit referendum, Carney highlighted the unforeseen consequences that can arise from such votes.
Carney's Brexit Parallel
Carney, who led the Bank of England from 2013 to 2020, noted that many Brexit supporters believed they were casting a 'free option' vote that would strengthen the UK's negotiating position. 'That is a very dangerous bluff,' Carney told reporters on Monday. 'I saw firsthand what happened in the United Kingdom when the view was: Vote for this, it'll be soft, and then we'll negotiate, etcetera. They're still 10 years later trying to undo what people didn't think they were voting for, but what they ended up having.'
Alberta's Referendum Plan
Last week, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith announced plans to hold a referendum in October, asking residents whether the energy-rich province should begin a legal process that could eventually lead to independence. However, the question will not be a direct vote on separation but rather a 'referendum on a referendum,' asking whether Alberta should pursue such a vote. Smith's decision followed a court ruling that blocked an Alberta separatist group's petition, citing a failure to consult Indigenous peoples on a major constitutional change.
Democratic Will Questioned
Carney questioned the democratic legitimacy of the vote, pointing out that separation was not part of Smith's campaign platform during the 2023 provincial election. 'Is it the democratic will of Albertans? Did they vote for this in the last provincial election? No, they didn't,' Carney said. He added that his government is reviewing the proposed question to ensure it complies with Canadian legislation on separation votes.
Government's Stance
Carney emphasized that he intends to campaign against separation through his government's actions, which focus on finding 'common ground' with each provincial government and cooperating on social programs and economic development. 'That's what Albertans expect. That's what Canadians expect across the country,' he stated.
When asked if he had tried to dissuade Smith from holding the vote, Carney did not directly answer but noted that she 'doesn't always take my advice.' He reiterated that the vote is unhelpful and could lead to unintended consequences, much like the Brexit referendum.
