VARIOUS: U2's Bono receives honorary British knighthood

Usually, he is known for rocky performances on stage. But over the last years, Irish rock star Bono also has been seen in the limelight of his relentless fight against poverty. Now, he has been awarded an honorary British knighthood, the British Embassy in Dublin said on Saturday (December 23, 2006). Fellow Irish rocker Bob Geldof, also a high-profile rights campaigner, received the same award in 1986. Honorary knighthoods are awarded to non-British nationals. A statement on the U2 Web site (www.u2.com) said Bono was "very flattered to be honoured, particularly if the honour ... opens doors for his long standing campaigning work against extreme poverty in Africa." British Prime Minister Tony Blair said he was delighted Bono had chosen to accept the award. The knighthood is the latest award for 46-year-old Bono. In 2003, he was given the Legion D'Honneur by President Jacques Chirac on behalf of the French government, for his contribution to music and his campaigning work. Last year Bono was awarded the Time Person of the Year 2005, along with Bill and Melinda Gates, for his work promoting justice and equality. The British Embassy said Bono would receive the award from the British ambassador to Ireland in a ceremony in Dublin shortly after New Year's Day. Bestowal of an honorary award does not confer the title "Sir" on the holder.

ITN Source | December 28, 2006

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