Bono to be knighted

DUBLIN:

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 said in a statement on December 23.

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 said the honorary KBE is a deserved reward for Bono for his “remarkable” humanitarian work.

In a statement from his Downing Street office, Blair said the singer has played a leading part in the fight against poverty and an “outstanding contribution” to music with U2.

Blair said he was “absolutely delighted” the star had accepted the award.

A statement on the U2 website said “We understand Bono is ‘very flattered’ to be honoured, particularly if the honour — like its French counterpart — opens doors for his work against extreme poverty in Africa.”

Bono, real name Paul Hews-on, will receive his knighthood’s insignia from the British Ambassador David Reddaway in Ireland in a ceremony in Dublin shortly after New Year’s Day.