"How will we pay for it?": Readers react to Transport Secretary's support for Unlock the Gridlock campaign

Grant Shapps and Northern Powerhouse Minister Jake Berry visited the YEP's offices on Thursday to discuss how the city could Unlock the Gridlock and get Leeds moving.

Mr Shapps gave his full support to our 'to-do' list for the new Government.

They include a pledge to look again at a mass-transit system for Leeds, a fix for the city's unreliable bus network, and improving our train services.

The Secretary of State also stressed that he could not solve the problems alone, and would need help from local bodies such as Leeds City Council and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority.

Speaking about mass-transit, he said: "It is clear that you can prioritise bus lanes or new forms of green transport but without a mass transit system, I think you are unlikely to ever get to the smooth running and economic potential of Leeds, which is already enormous.

"You have got to have that transit system."

But Leeds has been let down several times in the past when it comes to the big cash needed from Westminster to fund such a system.

Readers reacted with a healthy dose of scepticism to Mr Shapps' comments.

David Smith wrote on Twitter: "Nothing for 10 years then platitudes - central government funding for what, from where? How will we pay for it?"

While Maggie May wrote: "Wonder what he'll actually do? Probably nothing!"

Others were more positive.

Simon Young said: "Grant Shapps gave his full support to a pledge to look again at a mass-transit system for Leeds, a fix for the city's unreliable bus network, and improving our train services. Let’s hope he does."

And Jane Cameron wrote: "Fingers crossed, great campaign and work so far!"

Meanwhile, Michael Taylor wrote: "So the Government are up for a tram system, we’re desperate for a tram system, and what does this ridiculous council put as its mass transport system idea, more bus lanes, bus priority junctions. Jesus Christ, please have a modern vision, buses don't work and will never be the answer to our transport hell."