Stipe makes no apologies

Rock activist Michael Stipe makes no apologies for his political opinions - because those who disagree with him can choose not to listen to his views.

Actors and musicians are frequently criticised for sharing their political views with fans and the public - but Stipe insists he only ever answers questions posed by interviewers.

He tells London's Time Out magazine: "I have a political agenda as a private citizen. I happen to be a public figure. If someone asks me what I think about something, I will tell them and you can choose not to read it or choose to disagree with me.

"There's a power in that which I recognise. It also makes you very vulnerable."