Stephen Harper closely following unite the right, says former chief of staff

If Alberta's unite the right movement doesn't get its act together, Ottawa Conservatives, including former prime minister Stephen Harper, could well step in, says one political insider.

According toIanBrodie, former chief of staff to Stephen Harper, right-wing MPshavelong been "frustrated" by the inability of theWildroseand PC parties to work together in a province where the federal Conservatives are by far the most popular political party.

• Alberta unite-the-right group aims to bring Wildrose, PCs together
• Dave Rutherford calls out 'Alberta Can't Wait' on 3rd party vote, questions motivations

BrodiesaidHarper is watching Alberta politics intently, even if he's keeping a low profile.

"Idon't doubt that he's paying close attention, and his expertise and advice will be available to whoever can make it work."

Federal party has money and expertise

Brodiesuggested that the Conservatives have the fundraising and organizational capacity to get things rolling where the PCs and Wildrose have stalled.

"Federal Conservatives even in what was an off election for the party still won almost 400,000 votes more than the PCs and theWildrosedid in the last provincial election,"Brodiesaid.

"There are people there who are experienced at doing thisand used to winning big in Alberta. That's a pool of talent, a pool of ideas, a pool of people that are available once we get the vehicle together," he said.

BarryMcNamar, the head ofa political action group trying to unite conservatives,says it's not clear yet if a third conservative party is needed.

• Alberta unite the right group votes for new party

McNamarsaid theWildroseand PC parties could still cooperate, even if there is no officialmerger.

"The discussions are taking place between the two parties, certainly at the executive level," McNamar said.

"Progress is being made.What we have right now is a great deal of impatience."