The Libertines announced this morning that they will play all upcoming live dates, including festivals, without Pete Doherty, who appeared in court on offensive weapon charges yesterday. A statement from the band said, “Peter’s erratic mental state worries us greatly and having him on tour would only compound his problems.”

The tour will promote the band’s forthcoming album, The Libertines, and single, Can’t Stand Me Now, released on 30th August and 9th August respectively.

Meanwhile, Doherty appeared in court yesterday on charges of carrying an offensive weapon. As reported last week (click here to see the story), the singer was arrested in London shortly after returning from a failed rehab excursion to Thailand. Supported by friends and Libertines manager Alan McGee, he pleaded not guilty and was to reappear in court on 10th August from and prelim hearing.

A statement from Libertine frontman Carl Barat reads, “Peter is and always will be a Libertine and when he cleans up from his addictions he will be immediately welcomed back into the band. This decision is made with love and with no disregard to Peter and his problems. The other members of the band - Gary, John and myself - have come to this conclusion after three recent failed rehab attempts, all of which The Libertines have funded. Peter’s erratic mental state worries us greatly and having him on tour would only compound his problems. We aim to complete all existing tour commitments without him.”