‘We’re happy to pay a fortune in tax’: U2 hits back at criticism over havens

Members of U2 have hit back at claims they have sought to shield millions of pounds in overseas tax havens. In an interview with Sky News, lead singer Bono (pictured right) insisted the band pays a fortune in tax and it was “sensible” to move some of their business to the Netherlands. “It is just some smart people we have working for us trying to be sensible about the way we are taxed,” he said. “We pay a fortune in tax, a fortune, just so people know, and we’re happy to pay a fortune in tax.”

Because you’re good at philanthropy and because I am an activist people think you should be stupid in business and I don’t run with that.

U2 lead singer Bono

The band began its first tour in four years with a gig held in Vancouver last night. The 70-date Innocence and Experience show is almost sold out. U2’s last tour was the highest grossing by any band in history. This time they are playing small indoor arenas rather than stadiums. Bono is still recovering from the injuries he suffered in a bicycle accident in Central Park in New York last November. He said: “There’s nothing cool about falling off your push bike. I just feel so stupid. I did make a mess of myself but I’m strong now and feel good.” The new show features a spectacular giant display screen, at times dividing the venue in two and providing numerous stages.

So much of our business is outside of Ireland so it is ridiculous to make a big deal out of it.

U2 guitarist The Edge (pictured left)

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