Geldof defends link with Tories
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Bob Geldof says the Conservative leader, David Cameron, is "playing with fire" by recruiting him to join a Tory commission that will draw up a policy for tackling global poverty to be included in the next election manifesto.
Mr Geldof, who clashed with Margaret Thatcher two decades ago, admitted yesterday that he may be used by Mr Cameron to reach the "wristband generation" for the Tories.
"I know that," he said. "I'm not thick. They are kind of playing with fire. I am in nobody's pocket and if I think it's nonsense I will say that. The same went with the government commission on Africa.''
The recruitment of the former Boomtown Rats lead singer gave the Tory leader a publicity coup for a more caring style of Conservatism, and put the Government and the Liberal Democrats on the defensive.
Some anti-poverty campaigners protested at Mr Geldof accepting the Tory appointment, but he was unrepentant. Asked on Sky News if he was being used to help Conservatives to reach out to new supporters, he said: "I'm sure I am being used, as much as I'm being used by the Government. But that's my job, to be used, so long as I can help steer the policy towards those who are dying."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments