Paul McCartney applies to trademark his name

Billionaire musician Paul McCartney has applied to have his name trademarked.

McCartney'scompany, MPL Communications Ltd., made the application to Britain's Trademark Registry on Friday.

A registration would give the former Beatle exclusive rights to use"Paul McCartney"and help prevent others from using it.

While many would argue that McCartney is already a brand unto himself, at least musically,the application may be a harbinger of a line of productsbearing his name.

The application says McCartney wants permission to usehis name forvegetarian foods, and meat, fish and poultry products.

The permission, if granted,would alsogive MPL the right to use the name fora line ofclothing, including overalls, waistcoats, hosiery, dressing gowns, bath robes, sports clothing and swimwear.

McCartney's daughter, Stella McCartney, is a designer with her own brand of fashions.

It will take at least three months for the application to go through. In the meantime, anyone who thinksthe singershould not hold exclusive rights tothename can register an objection.

MPL Communications was set up by McCartney to handle his recordings after the breakup of the Beatles.