Drink up, we're in Berwick . .

SCOTTISH rail passengers could be ordered to drink up before they pass the border, under new plans to ban alcohol on public transport in England.

Home secretary Jacqui Smith has suggested the plans to cut loutish behaviour on public transport. But they would not apply in Scotland, meaning travellers would have to finish their drinks on trains going into England.

Miss Smith said: "I understand people's concerns about antisocial behaviour on public transport. We want to stamp it out on our buses, trains and trams. If more powers are needed to protect staff and the travelling public, we will provide them."

Police already have the powers to designate trains and coaches going to and from sporting events as "dry", but a wider ban could prove controversial.

A Scottish Government said it has no plans to ban alcohol on public transport.