Andrew Lloyd Webber has said that the only reason the X Factor is enjoying such high ratings at the moment, is because his shows are off air.

The Lord, 59, said: “Last year it was up against Maria for a few weeks.

“We took a big chunk of their ratings. We were getting about six million and they were getting about seven million.

“So of course they are doing well this year — there’s nothing up against them.”

Lloyd Webber also revealed he will be back on TV with a BBC Christmas special with all the Maria and Joseph finalists.

And he added: “I am still talking with the BBC for a show next year. But it won’t be one of my musicals.”