I HAVE nothing but praise for the young people in the city of York who have through their own conviction decided to purchase air pollution monitors. They are the leaders of tomorrow (The Press, June 14).

At the same time I must register my dismay at City of York Council’s executive member for the environment for seeking media coverage to attempt to achieve party political aims, by means of young people.

The body responsible for maintaining the quality of the air we breathe is the local council, of which Cllr Andrew Waller is a member and spokesman.

May I point out to Cllr Waller that young people do not drive the vehicles that create air pollution.

His message should be aimed at private drivers of vehicles, including delivery drivers and bus companies.

The coalition of Lib Dem and Tory council in York have yet to come up with any initiative to reduce pollution, apart from suggestions of a ferry service on the Ouse, but readers should not forget that a brave initiative by the last Labour council, by closing Lendal Bridge, was attacked vociferously by both the Lib Dems and the Tories.

A big hurrah to the young people for being so environmentally astute and a massive condemnation to the Lib Dem and Tory councillors who appear to be too scared to tackle the immense problem that York faces with air pollution.

Howard Perry, St James Place, Dringhouses, York