Plans to introduce cash-less integrated tickets which can be used on buses, trains and ferries throughout Scotland, has been unveiled by Transport Scotland.

The organisation announced this week that smartcard technology is being developed which will allow users to access different travel services, ensuring Scotland has one of the most sophisticated travel systems in Europe in place well in advance of the Commonwealth Games coming to Glasgow in 2014.

The Integrated Ticketing Strategy for Scotland is currently being considered by transport operators, local authorities, Regional Transport Partnerships and transport user groups. Consultation is due to be completed later this month.

Stewart Stevenson, minister for transport, infrastructure and climate change said: "The eyes of the world will be on Scotland in 2014 and it is vital we have a sophisticated, effective ticketing system in place which provides genuine ease of access across our transport networks."