The increased possibility of a sovereigntist government taking over in Quebec has prompted Prime Minister Stephen Harper to do something he has refused to do for years: meet with former prime minister Brian Mulroney.

The Canadian Press has learned that Stephen Harper held a secret meeting in a Montreal hotel with Mulroney last week to seek advice on forming a better relationship with Quebec.

Government sources confirm the prime minister also sought out Premier Jean Charest.

But Harper's meeting with Mulroney reflects how skittish the government is about its relationship with Quebec: the two men had a major falling out five years ago and haven't much spoken since.

The meetings weren't just about increasing Conservative party standings in Quebec, though they do want to do that.

The prime minister is also seeking to bolster his personal profile to fight back any question of separation that could emerge if Parti Quebecois wins the next provincial election.

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