Alberta UCP leadership split on idea of provincial police to replace RCMP

The seven candidates running to be the next United Conservative Party leader and premier are split on whether Alberta should bring in its own provincial police force.

Four of them told a debate in Calgary that it's not a plan they would pursue now.

Rebecca Schulz says she is not hearing about it on doorsteps, and notes the vast majority of municipalities don't want it.

Rajan Sawhney (RAW'-jun SAW'-nee) says it's a solution in search of a problem and a larger discussion is needed on how to best reduce crime and keep people safer.

Leela Aheer (LEE'-luh uh-HEER') says the province has not made it clear how such a change would be paid for.

Premier Jason Kenney's government is still investigating whether to pursue a plan to replace Mounties who currently carry out their duties in rural areas and some smaller cities.