The Babyshambles have reportedly postponed their UK tour because frontman Pete Doherty claims he needs more time to finish his drug rehabilitation course.

A spokesperson for their record company EMI said: “It has become clear that Peter embarked on this arduous and high-profile tour too soon after his discharge.”

“Babyshambles made the decision to postpone the remaining five dates of their current UK tour.”

“Peter asks that he be given time and space to continue with his excellent effort to recovery. The band apologise to fans but hope they will understand.”

The band played a gig in London on Thursday night but after the concert, in the early hours of Friday morning, Pete reportedly had an argument with girlfriend Kate Moss about the sudden return to touring.

A source told the Sun: “Kate is angry Pete is on the road so soon after being in rehab. He is clearly back on drugs and she can’t see how he can stay clean on tour.”

After cancelling the tour, Kate and Pete are believed to have left London for Kate’s Cotswolds home. The source added: “Kate wants Pete to move full-time to her cottage there.”

“She’s desperate for him to give up the shows and settle down to write a new album.”