Speculation that the band, who reformed last year in their original line-up, would perform again has been rife in recent weeks.

But Barat said they had no plans in place because he and Pete Doherty had yet to write any new material.

“Truly moving as it was to play Reading, Leeds and the Forum it would not be right to do this every year without new material as I'm sure most would agree,” he said.

“You never know though, some day I hope we'll write the next album.”

Meanwhile, Barat will perform an intimate secret gig at a London pub in March 21.

He said the show would be recorded and released as part of a new EP, which also includes the new songs 'Grimaldi', 'Death Fires Burn At Night', 'Sing For My Supper' and 'This Is The Song'.

(by Jason Gregory)