A STAFFORDSHIRE MP is urging residents to respond to a Government consultation on wild animals in circuses.

Uttoxeter MP Janet Dean wants people to have their say on whether the use of wild animals in travelling circuses should be banned.

Mrs Dean said: "I know many of my constituents are strongly opposed to wild animals being used for entertainment.

"I agree that the circus is no place for a wild creature.

"The animals can spend a lot of time in temporary quarters or being transported in cramped conditions and they lack the space they need to maintain normal behaviour."

Details of the consultation, which runs until March 15, are on the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs website. Or write to Rebecca Kenner, Defra Animal Welfare Act Implementation Team, c/o 17 Smith Square,London SW1P 3JR.