New South of Scotland MSP, Craig Hoy, and Borders MP, John Lamont met last week to discuss their priorities for the Borders in the coming months.
The pair met in Lauder for the first time since Craig was elected to the Scottish Parliament in early May.
They discussed issues including helping public services recover from the pandemic, protecting jobs over the coming months, and how the Borders tourism industry can thrive with reduced international travel.
John Lamont MP, said:
“I was delighted to see Craig elected to the Scottish Parliament alongside Rachael Hamilton. I know he will be a strong voice for areas like the Borders and East Lothian.
“There is a huge challenge ahead for our public services. The NHS has done a great job of dealing with coronavirus, but sadly there will be a long term effect on waiting times for operations.
“Similarly, our tourism industry has to deal with ever changing restrictions for their customers in an already tough domestic market.
“I will be working with Craig on how we can best support businesses and public services to recover from the shock of Covid-19 over the coming months.
“This is our priority and should be the priority at all levels of government.”
South of Scotland MSP, Craig Hoy, added:
"I look forward to working with John to drive forward local issues and ensure that Tweeddale and Lauderdale have a strong and dynamic voice in Holyrood.
“Over the coming months I will speak up for public services, local businesses, tourism and the rural economy to ensure their interests are put at the heart of the Covid recovery.
“I also look forward to meeting as many local community groups and businesses as I can in order to effectively represent their interests and issues in the Scottish Parliament.”