In a new question and answer session with fans on Morrissey fansite True to You, the former Smiths frontman is up to his usual tricks – though there’s also some interesting information about his forthcoming plans.

First, he’s half-way through writing a novel. “In 2013 I published my Autobiography and it has been more successful than any record I have ever released”, Mozz explains, “so, yes, I am mid-way through my novel. I have my hopes. The actuality is that radio stations will not play my music, and the majority of people have lost faith in the music industry, and it’s generally assumed – quite rightly – that the number one chart positions are “bought” by the major labels, so there really is no passion left in pop or rock music, and I don’t think people believe for an instant that the faces we constantly see on television and in magazines are remotely popular.”

But despite the music industry doom and gloom, he will be releasing a new album (“We are about to record our new album, and one of the tracks is called ‘Istanbul'”). Not with the Smiths though, of course (“As an entity, I have no interest in the Smiths, so as long as I’m not asked about the Smiths, I won’t slip into permanent unconsciousness. And that’s a promise.”)

Inevitably, Morrissey reserves his strongest words for meat-eaters. “I see no difference between eating animals and paedophilia”, he claims. “They are both rape, violence, murder. If I’m introduced to anyone who eats beings, I walk away.”

You can read the full Q&A here.