Friendly international football matches between England and Scotland may be set to return, the Commons heard today.
Scotland secretary Jim Murphy said discussions had been held with the Scottish Football Association about the return of the annual fixture.
Andrew Pelling (Ind, Croydon Central) suggested that the promotion of Scottish culture throughout the UK could be encouraged by having Celtic and Rangers playing in the English leagues.
During Commons question time, Murphy declared his interest as a follower of one of the teams and also implied an imminent return of the Home Internationals.
"That is of course a decision for the football authorities and the football clubs themselves," he said.
"But what I do think would enhance cross-border cultural exchange would be a return of the Scotland versus England friendly football matches."
He said that Northern Ireland would replace England in the Home Internationals, an annual football tournament that ended in 1984.
Murphy said that there was also a commitment for a return of the Scotland v England football managements, following discussions with the SFA.
He added: "I think it would be a remarkable sporting event and a highlight of the football calendar so bring it on."
