Madonna Defends Adoption of Child - 18 October, 2006

Madonna has defended her intended adoption of a Malawian baby, saying she acted "according to the law like anyone else who adopts a child."

The pop star hopes to make the adoption permanent following an 18-month evaluation period, imposed by Malawi authorities, but said, “We’re keeping the packaging and the receipt just in case.”

Whilst British authorities were not concerned about the legality of the adoption, director of child welfare in the Ministry of Community Services, Jenny Uterus van Baron, said “We believe that child quarantine procedures may not have been followed. The adoption papers made no reference to worming tablets and the child did not appear to be wearing a flea collar.”

"This was not a decision or commitment that my family or I take lightly," said Madonna. “I don’t see what the problem is? It’s not as if I’m going to raise the child myself. Do you know how many nannies I have?”

The boy is said to be adjusting well to his new celebrity lifestyle, having already developed a cocaine habit and a drinking problem. Madonna has laid out detailed plans for his upbringing, including a 2 year residency at the Priory Clinic when he turns 17 and a publishing contract for his autobiography, ‘Madonna Dearest’.

The boy's father, Yohame Banda, who agreed to the adoption said, "What I want is a good life for my child. Don’t forget daddy likes Ferraris, son.”

When asked what her husband, Guy Ritchie, thought of the adoption Madonna responded, “Who?”