Michael launches tour with political attack

George Michael kicked off his first tour for 15 years in Barcelona at the weekend. However, the night was not without controversy, as the singer mocked both George Bush and Tony Blair at the concert.

A giant inflatable caricature of the American president appeared on stage at the Palau Sant Jordi arena during the song 'Shoot The Dog'. Michael then reportedly unzipped the Bush dummy's trousers for a British Bulldog to emerge from within. This echoes the lyrics of the song, which are a vehement attack on both leaders and their decision to go to war with Iraq.

Political statements aside, Michael treated the 18,000 strong crowd to solo material plus a couple of Wham classics.

His new single 'This Is Not Real Love", featuring former Sugababe Mutya Buena, is scheduled for release on October 16. The tour reaches British shores in November.