The recognition by a Government transport minister of the importance of improved transport links to Leeds Bradford Airport is a step forward in the ongoing fight to make it more accessible.

But, although he accepted there was an issue with passengers getting to the airport, Robert Goodwill was unable to put any sort of timescale or definite details on the possibility of a rail link.

However, the recognition of the problem is at least a small step towards finding a solution for it.

And by travelling by bus, Mr Goodwill at least got first hand experience of the kind of difficulties faced by travellers who are either unable or unwilling to head to the airport by car.

What we need now, though, is concrete proposals outlining exactly where any proposed rail link would go and how Bradford would connect into it..

There is vague talk at the moment of a ‘train tram’ project running between Bradford and Leeds with a stop at the airport, but we are a long way from any constructive proposals of any sort.

Obviously, finance is a huge sticking point, but there will be many who would argue that such a project would be far more beneficial for the region – and Bradford in particular – than HS2, and would surely cost only a fraction of the sum being spent on that scheme.

Let us hope Mr Goodwill can now give us more than just words, and take note of the combined voices of MPs, business leaders and local councils, and act positively to kickstart tangible proposals that will lead to better access for air passengers to Leeds-Bradford.