Alberta votes 76% to stay in Canada in early results but defiant separatists vow their movement 'isn't stopping'

Prime Minister Mark Carney hailed 'a clear choice', declaring 'Albertans chose Canada' once tallies had surpassed 1.4 million ballots. Rather than asking directly about independence, the ballot posed the question of whether to begin a legal process leading to a binding separation referendum. Separatist leader Keith Wilson argued that no fewer than one in four Albertans believe the province 'needs to be treated better'. Premier Danielle Smith is due to address the province on Tuesday evening.

A separatist court appeal could still force Alberta to hold another separation vote.

Carney had warned voters that backing a break-up was 'a dangerous bluff'.

Wainwright voter Dustin Degenhardt said Alberta has been 'treated as, you know, a colony'.