U2 back new Amnesty campaign

U2 are backing a campaign launched by Amnesty International as part of its worldwide mission to stop torture.

The Irish band have long supported the organisation.

The new initiative is called FAST (Fast Action Stops Torture).

It will instantly send out an alarm to thousands of activists around the globe on their mobiles, pagers and computers alerting them to an imminent threat of torture.

Members can then send instant electronic letters of protest.

Amnesty International says within hours the threat of torture can be exposed.

Once exposed, it is nearly impossible to carry out as torturers thrive when they can act in secrecy, it says.

To find out more about the charities U2 supports go to the Hearts and Minds section at U2.com.

To register for the FAST campaign visit www.amnestyusa.org.