THE LIBERTINES - THE LIBERTINES TO SPLIT UP?

British rockers THE LIBERTINES are allegedly splitting up because frontman CARL BARAT is determined to quit the music industry.

The CAN'T STAND ME NOW band lost their previous singer PETE DOHERTY earlier this year (04) due to drug problems, and are keen to take time out of the spotlight after their tour ends in December (04).

Barat explains, "As of the end of December, GARY (POWELL), JOHN (HASSALL) and I have decided to quit. The Libertines will be off the road for the foreseeable future, no more official gigs are booked."