Stones tracks censored in China

Chinese authorities have asked the Rolling Stones to cut five songs when they play in Shanghai - one more than when they were due to perform in 2003.

Lead singer Sir Mick Jagger said the band were not worried by the censorship and had fully expected it.

"Fortunately, we have 400 more songs that we can play so it's not really an issue," said Sir Mick.

The band's last tour to China was axed following the outbreak of the Sars virus in the area.

Ahead of those concerts on Saturday, the government asked that Brown Sugar, Honky Tonk Woman, Beast of Burden and Let's Spend the Night Together not be played because of their suggestive lyrics.

Authorities have now requested another be banned, which is reportedly Rough Justice from the Bigger Bang album.

The Rolling Stones do not have such a devoted following in China as elsewhere in the world and it is widely expected the majority of the audience will be non-Chinese.

Sir Mick sarcastically said: "I'm pleased that the Ministry of Culture is protecting the morals of the expat bankers and their girlfriends that are going to be coming."

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