Hilary Duff usually keeps quiet around the paps - but when it comes to her ex-flame Joel Madden's parental qualifications, she's just gotta speak up!

We caught the Duffster stopping by the Neil George Salon for another quick touch-up on Saturday. On her way in, we started asking her what whether she thought Joel would make a good dad - and we were pleasantly surprised to hear her respond with a perky "Of course!"

Atta girl, Hil! So many people in position would seize the opportunity for cattiness - but good ol' Hilary always takes the high road!