A Midland MP made what he called a last-ditch attempt to save traditional travelling circuses when he introduced a Bill in the Commons yesterday.

Peter Luff ( Con Mid Worcestershire) said circuses must be exempt from legislation which could force them to pay licence fees of up to £24,000.

Under the Licensing Act 2003, circuses will need to buy a licence every time they erect a big top.

The Act was designed to give police and councils more power to deal with anti-social behaviour in nightspots, as well as making it easier for pubs and clubs to offer latenight drinking.

But it also applies to entertainment venues where alcohol is not sold, such as circuses.

Businesses will need to pay around £600 for every venue they use.

Mr Luff said circuses, which can make up to 40 stops a year, would be forced to close because they could not afford to pay the bill.

His Bill would give the Culture Secretary the power to make circuses exempt, or to buy just one licence covering every performance.

He said: "The debate about the Licensing Act has concentrated on alcohol related antisocial behaviour, 24-hour drinking and, to an extent, its impact on village halls and sports clubs.

"But the Act also threatens to destroy a whole British cultural tradition, the touring circus - a tradition that brings simple pleasure to thousands of families every year and a tradition that is, for many young people, their first introduction to the performing arts."

He added: "Getting 40 licences poses three problems for circuses. First, there is the cost - on average around £600 per licence. Second, there is the bureaucracy - it's really difficult for a small circus out on tour to go through all the complex formalities. Third, and, perhaps most seriously, there is the resultant inflexibility."

The Bill was passed unopposed by MPs and will receive a second reading in December, but is unlikely to succeed without Government support.