Bono keen to speak with Australian PM

Bono says he wants a word with Australian Prime Minister John Howard about boosting the nation's aid to poor countries.

Bono, whose band opens its Australian tour in Brisbane tonight, said wealthy countries should donate a bigger percentage of their gross domestic products to help combat global poverty, particularly in Africa. He said he wouldn't meet Mr Howard if he wasn't serious about the issue.

Bono went on to say that the Make Poverty History campaign - a coalition of aid agencies, community groups and celebrities - was doing a "great job".

The singer said U2 were excited about kick-starting their Australian tour and he was overwhelmed by U2's Australian following. "They're very passionate about music," he said.