Ageing Rolling Stones legend Keith Richards has reportedly come under fire for condoning the use of illegal drugs at the start of the band's Australian tour.

Richards, 59, said he had no problems with drugs but did not like drug dealers, The Daily Telegraph reported.

"I have no problems with drugs, but I have problems with people who deal them," he told the newspaper.

"If you didn't have to go down to the bloody gutter to get it, and meet the people who live there, it wouldn't be so bad."

The comments have led to a flurry of condemnation from health and welfare groups, with National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre spokesman Paul Dillion saying Richards was sending the wrong message

P.S. Talk about 9 lives..Keith's amazing.  Considering what he's been through..he must have an iron constitution.  Didn't he get a complete blood transfusion at one time, trying to kick smack?  I know, it's "only" Rock n' Roll, but...really, Keith!

Gene