U2's Bono to be given honorary British knighthood

0 Comments | AFP, December, 2006

DUBLIN (AFP) — Irish rock star and anti-poverty campaigner Bono is to be made an honorary British knight by Queen Elizabeth II, the British embassy in Dublin has said in a statement. Bono, 46, is to become an honorary Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (KBE) "in recognition of his services to the music industry and for his humanitarian work".

The award is conferred by the queen on the advice of the British government. Prime Minister Tony Blair says the honorary KBE is a deserved reward for Bono for his "remarkable" humanitarian work. In a statement from his Downing Street office Saturday, Blair said the singer has played a leading part in the fight against poverty and an "outstanding contribution" to music with U2. Blair -- who under pressure...