Are labels responsible for artists' extreme views?(The big question)

In light of the controversy surrounding Beenie Man and the Mobo nominations, to what extent should labels or retailers be responsible for the opinions of their artists?

Peter Quicke, Ninja Tune.

"I do think labels have some responsibility. It is everybody's responsibility to protect our communities and if someone is knowingly abusing people then it is incumbent on everyone to try and make their efforts as ineffectual as possible. There is a line because I do not believe in censorship, but record labels should be responsible."

John Fogarty, Miller Music

"I do think there must be some responsibility. If you're aware that lyrics may be contentious or inflammatory you need to have some form of consultation with the artist if you think the lyrics could have some affect in the community."

Gennaro Castaldo, HMV

"I think its totally inappropriate for retailers to act as de facto public censors by pulling stock on the basis of content, although it's clearly incumbent on us to merchandise and sell product responsibly and in a way that is sensitive to a particular situation. In this instance that would mean continuing to stock particular titles, thus allowing customers to make their own, informed purchasing decisions, but not actively promoting them. I ...