United Kingdom, March 9 -- Pierce Brosnan has insisted that the next James Bond must be British.

The 71-year-old actor is one of many who have taken on the titular role of the '007' franchise over the years and he has insisted that it is a "given" that new bosses of the film series must adhere to the tradition of casting a British star now that Amazon Studios have taken control from Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson.

Speaking to The Sunday Telegraph, he added: "In this world that is moving so fast now, at the speed of light, [the takeover] does come with a certain lament.

"I thought it was coming for some time I guess, but I think it was the right decision for Barbara and Michael.

"It takes great courage for them to let go. They ...