BORDERS politicians John Lamont MP and Rachael Hamilton MSP have welcomed the news that a new Scottish Borders Council administration has been formed.

And they both say that they look forward to working with them on the key issues facing the Borders.

On Thursday night it was announced that the Scottish Conservatives will be joined by three independent councillors – Hawick Councillors Watson McAteer, Stuart Marshall and Selkirkshire Councillor Caroline Cochrane to form the next SBC administration.

Galashiels Cllr Euan Jardine will lead the new administration, whilst Cllr McAteer will serve as the council’s new convener, replacing Cllr David Parker in this role.

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The new administration has pledged to focus on improving Borders communities, prioritising local issues and listening to what people want from their council.

John Lamont MP said: “It is great to hear that a new, Conservative led coalition has been formed at SBC. I am especially pleased that Cllr Jardine will be leading this administration as I know how hard he will work for us all here in the Borders.

“The three independent councillors who have joined the coalition will bring a variety of perspectives to the administration.

“Their popularity among voters is very clear, and I have no doubt that they will be a great asset to the administration.

“I very much look forward to working with the new administration on various issues”

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Rachael Hamilton said: “It is fantastic news that this new coalition has been formed. I know that the councillors working in the new administration are incredibly hard working and will do their absolute best to make the Borders a better place.

“There is a long list of important issues that I look forward to working with the council on. Helping people through the cost of living crisis, for example, will be a key challenge for us all, from national to local government.

“Cllr Jardine is absolutely the right person to lead this coalition, and I am very pleased that he has been able to form an administration off the back of his negotiations. I would also like to congratulate Cllr McAteer on being appointed the new convenor of the council.

“Moreover, it is fantastic to see that over a third of the new administration will be made up of women. A strong female voice on the administration will be a real asset to the council.