Geldof in secret talks for 'Live 8'

Published on 20/05/2005 01:41

IT WAS the first of its kind and became an international symbol of idealism, passion and action against poverty through music. Now, two decades later, Live Aid II looks set to go ahead in Hyde Park on Saturday, 2 July.

After weeks of speculation and vigorous denials by Bob Geldof, it became clear yesterday that he has been holding secret talks for weeks.

He is reported to have described the idea of a sequel to the first gig as a "disaster" and insisted: "I wouldn't do it and I can't see a point to it."

However, both Capital FM and the Prince's Trust have admitted that they have cancelled their annual Party in the Park to support Geldof's event.

A spokeswoman for Capital FM said: "We have been in discussion with Bob Geldof and Live Aid. We have offered them the use of the infrastructure that has been set up in the park."

She said that while there had been no official announcement, one was imminent.

Stars reported to be "about to be confirmed" include Joss Stone, Oasis and Robbie Williams. Others rumoured to be involved include Coldplay's Chris Martin, and U2's Bono, both supporters of the Make Poverty History campaign.

The concert's aim is reportedly to pressurise world leaders into addressing the problem of Third World debt.

However, Bernard Doherty, chief executive of LD Communications, which acts as the Band Aid Trust's press office, said:

"We cannot confirm whether it is or it isn't happening until Bob Geldof announces whether it is or it isn't happening."

A spokeswoman for promoter Harvey Goldsmith, who is rumoured to be behind the project, also refused to confirm his involvement.

The charity Make Poverty History, which is set to benefit from the gig, is also under strict instructions not to talk about it.

Yesterday, a string of new names were reportedly added to the planned bill, including original Band Aid veterans Annie Lennox and Sting, as well young rockers Razorlight.

The Live Aid show, reportedly scheduled to coincide with the G8 summit in Gleneagles on Third World debt, has been dubbed "Live 8".

But, unlike the original Live Aid concert, it is understood the event will not be geared toward raising public cash.