Transport secretary Patrick McLoughlin and transport minister Robert Goodwell visited the north of England to discuss a ‘northern powerhouse’ plan that would see improved travel links to major northern cities.

On visits to Leeds and Liverpool, they discussed how rail improvements could transform the region, with Mr McLoughin describing the meetings as “very constructive” and saying: “I look forward to working closely with these organisations as they develop their plans.”

The transport secretary added: “Strong rail links are vital to building economic prosperity across the north.

“We have big ambitions for more trains, more seats and faster services, and local leaders in the north are best placed to tell us how we can make this a reality.”

This comes ahead of the possible creation of Transport for the North (TfN) - a new organisation that would comprise the main northern cities. This body would work with the government in a bid to develop transport plans, including proposals for an east-west rail link connecting major cities, in order to strengthen the region’s economy.