If there is an issue that never fails to get Bristolians talking, it's public transport.

From bendy buses to bike lanes and train timetables to traffic lights, there are always opinions and, to be frank, most of them are negative.

Our buses are too expensive, our trains are overcrowded, our roads are too busy and the alternatives – bikes or cars – leave most of us hot under the collar.

So today it is marvellous to be able to speak about a public transport initiative which, surely, should have us all in agreement.

The Government says a London-style Oyster card system could be introduced in Bristol within five years. This is basically a debit card that can be swiped as travellers get on their bus or train instead of needing change to buy a ticket.

Users top it up when it runs out and there are safeguards to stop fraudulent use.

Any scheme that allows people to just hop on and off without worrying about rooting through their pocket for change or buying a season ticket in advance has to be a good thing.

When Justin Davies took the helm of First's bus network for the area, he suggested an Oyster-style card could be introduced.

The question now is where the money will come from. It would be awful if such an effective system was not introduced here, especially if we are serious about public transport as an alternative to the car.

The talking has been done – now we need action.