Provincial politics stand between PM and his trade plans

Provincial politics at opposite ends of the country threaten to upset Stephen Harper’s international-trade agenda.

This prime minister has been able to count on allies in provincial capitals when it comes to trade. He could open talks that touch directly on provincial jurisdiction and count on leaders like Jean Charest and former B.C. premier Gordon Campbell to stay onside, and stay quiet.

That peace might not last.

Oilsands play big role in Redford's 'national energy strategy'

Alberta Premier Alison Redford nominated herself to champion the herculean task of spearheading a Canadian energy strategy, but on the eve of the annual summer premiers conference in Halifax, the B.C. government has made her undertaking that much more difficult.

Yesterday's announcement by B.C.'s ministers of the environment and aboriginal affairs sent a message to Alberta that Enbridge's Northern Gateway pipeline will have to overcome environmental and financial hurdles before the provincial government will allow the project to proceed.