Conservative MP Dane Lloyd said he is concerned by reports that Alberta separatists travelled to Washington and offered fresh water and oil in exchange for U.S. support. Lloyd, who is leading his party’s effort to persuade Albertans to remain in Canada, said no one has the right to promise away the province’s resources and he will not condone Alberta revenue going to a foreign government.

The Globe and Mail reported over the weekend that Republican political operatives visited Alberta earlier this year to support the separatist cause. Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree referred questions about the reporting to the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS).

Calgary Mayor Jeromy Farkas said the reported discussions amounted to “selling out.” “MAGA political operatives came to Calgary to help carve up our country. Meanwhile, separatist leaders went to Washington promising our water, our oil, and our land,” Farkas wrote online. He added: “If you want to live in the United States, move to the United States.”

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith’s press secretary said Monday that Smith is not affiliated with the separatists identified in the reports. “(She) has no knowledge of these alleged meetings. She also opposes separation or becoming a U.S. state.,” said Sam Blackett, director of media relations. Blackett added: “In fact, many of these individuals in question have been relentlessly attacking the premier for her support for remaining in Canada.”

Albertans are scheduled to vote Oct. 19 on whether to hold a binding referendum on legal separation from Canada. Smith has said she will vote against separation, though critics have accused her of doing too little to curb separatist sentiment in the province. The report included files from Michael Franklin of CTV News.

Based on reporting by CTV News Calgary.