U2 frontman Bono has criticised Canadian Prime Minister Paul Martin for not living up to his foreign aid promises.

Despite pledging to increase the country's aid contribution to the equivalent of 0.7 of its gross national product, the promises have yet to come true, leaving Bono 'bewildered.'

He said in a CBC radio interview: "We were looking for Canada to lead rather than be a laggard. This is no time to just turn inward. I know there are problems here at home. But don't lose your focus, Prime Minister, on how history will remember this moment."

The Irish icon went on to inform listeners of the number of Martin's office with suggestions that they phone in to complain.