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Elton John urged to adopt British, not Ukrainian orphan

By Kate Matharu on Monday 14 September 2009

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Marie Claire celebrity photos: Elton John and David Furnish, The Oscars 2008

Sir Elton John has been advised to adopt a British orphan, rather than a proposed Ukranian boy, after charities feared more children would be abandoned in eastern Europe, in the hope of being adopted by wealthy Westerners.

The news broke over the weekend that 62-year-old Elton plans to adopt a 14-month-old boy named Lev from a Ukrainian orphanage after visiting the country on behalf of his Aids foundation.

Elton and his partner David Furnish held a press conference following the visit and in answer to one question on their plans for a family, Sir Elton admitted that he and David would like to adopt baby Lev.

He said: ‘David and I have always talked about adoption, David always wanted to adopt a child and I always said 'no' because I am 62 and I think because of the travelling I do and the life I have, maybe it wouldn't be fair for the child.’

He continued: ‘But having seen Lev, I would love to adopt him. I don't know how we do that but he has stolen my heart. And he has stolen David's heart and it would be wonderful if we can have a home. I've changed my mind.’

However, British charities including The British Association for Adoption and Fostering have already commented on the benefits of adopting children in this country, before turning attention to those abroad.

‘It is admirable that Sir Elton wants to adopt a child but I'm not sure he's really thought it through,’ said a spokesperson for the charity.

‘We want more people to consider adoption but would urge them to look closer to home and the needy children here in the UK. Each year we have 4,000 children who require adopting, but only 3,000 youngsters find a home.

‘There are 1,000 children waiting for a loving home here and perhaps Sir Elton could have a think about that.’