Prime Minister Mark Carney has called the upcoming Alberta referendum on separation from Canada a “dangerous bluff,” comparing it to Brexit and warning of unintended consequences.

He said the UK’s experience showed voters did not fully anticipate the long-term effects of leaving the EU, and urged caution in Alberta’s decision-making.

The referendum, scheduled for October 19, will ask whether Alberta should remain in Canada or proceed toward a future vote on separation.

Supporters of independence argue Alberta is economically constrained by federal policies, while opponents, including Carney, are campaigning for national unity, the BBC has reported.

A recent poll suggests most Albertans currently favor remaining in Canada, even as political debate over the referendum continues.