CALGARY - Alberta's Opposition leader says now is not the time to hold a referendum on quitting Canada as the country wages a consequential trade war with its southern neighbour.

While Alberta's grievances may be legitimate, pursuing separation now could weaken Canada's ongoing trade dispute potentially benefiting US interests in absorbing Canada.

CALGARY - Alberta's Opposition leader says now is not the time to hold a referendum on quitting Canada as the country wages a consequential trade war with its southern neighbour.