Extending the Borders Railway to Carlisle is "a realistic prospect", according to Scottish Secretary David Mundell.
The Conservative MP for Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale and Tweeddale - the Scottish constituency closest to Carlisle - has pledged to work with the Scottish Government to deliver the SNP's manifesto pledge to explore extending the recently re-opened railway line to England.
His commitment is part of a new drive to foster more "collegiate" relations with the Scottish Government, which was reduced to a minority in the recent Scottish election, following the turbulent years of the SNP majority and the independence campaign.
In a speech in Edinburgh, Mr Mundell said: "Scotland needs good transport links to thrive.
"During the election, the First Minister stated her commitment of exploring the feasibility of extending the Borders Railway to Carlisle.
"Patently, such a development would require cross-border working and partnership.
"I am ready to work with the Scottish Government on this issue, as they develop their plans and thinking."
He added: "I think it is a realistic prospect. It obviously requires considerable work in terms of ensuring that the route is identified.
"There are complexities because, obviously, it crosses a border and the legislation and rules required to create a railway in England are slightly different from those in Scotland.
"But I think everyone is of a mind that it should be done and the funding obviously is identified.
"I think it is perfectly do-able and I think for communities like Hawick it will make a major difference. It's also got huge potential in the south to take traffic off the roads. I have committed to play my part."
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