Britney Spears to remain under father's control

The conservatorship was imposed after a troubled spell for Spears

Singer Britney Spears' personal and financial affairs are to remain under the legal control of her father, a Los Angeles judge has ruled.

Spears, 28, met privately with Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Reva Goetz, who later confirmed in court the arrangement would stay in place.

Spears' father Jamie also met with the judge behind closed doors.

The conservatorship was imposed in 2008 after the star was admitted to hospital for psychiatric treatment.

Judge Goetz said in court that she had "a very nice conversation" with Spears during their meeting, but did not give any further details.

Lawyers for the singer unsuccessfully attempted to overturn the ruling when it was first imposed in February 2008.

In October of that year, the courts agreed that the arrangement, which had been due to expire on 31 December, should continue indefinitely.

It was granted by Judge Goetz on the basis that although Spears appeared to be in improved health, she remained "susceptible to undue influence".

The judge added that the conservatorship was necessary in the light of the pop star's complex financial situation.