Lily Allen responds to drug comments

Lily Allen has been forced to respond to comments she made about cocaine use.

The singer has issued a statement denying that she ever condoned the use of the illegal substance.

"Lily Allen would like to state unequivocally that she does not condone illegal drug use and has every sympathy with individuals and families whose lives have been blighted by drugs," the statement reads.

Allen caused controversy after claiming that friends who took cocaine could still lead a normal life.

The National Drugs Prevention Alliance said the singer was "harming young people who will at some point in their lives have to make a decision about taking drugs," while alcohol treatment charity Addaction called her comments "misguided".

Allen releases new single 'The Fear' on January 26.