Deep Purple frontman Ian Gillan has revealed he’s writing a novel that explores what happens when a part of England declares independence from the UK.

He believes such a “fresh start” presents an opportunity to correct some social imbalances – and to protect democracy from collapse.

Gillan tells US radio station 94HJY:

“It’s about the declaration of independence of the four counties of the south-west of England, calling themselves the country Wessex.

“It’s about a new way of thinking, a rethinking of democracy, which is struggling with its greatest strength – tolerance. That strength becomes a weakness; so you have to fight to keep the aims of democracy going.

“It’s a good chance to reshuffle everything from schooling to policing to transport and health – it’s a refreshing look at what you can do when you get a fresh start.”

He’s also working on another title that explores theology. “It’s a science book, The Infinite God,” he explains. “It has a load of wacky theories. I’ve been communicating with astrophysicists and mathematicians, who are guiding me along the right path.”

Purple are poised to release new album Now What?! on April 29.