WikiLeaks founder refused bail by UK court

The founder of the WikiLeaks website, Julian Assange, has been remanded in custody by magistrates in London.

He was driven away from court after a hearing on an arrest warrant issued by Sweden for alleged sex offences, charges he denies.

Magistrates at Westminster turned down his application for bail, instead ordering him to remain in custody until December 14.

Assange, who gave an Australian address in court, told magistrates that he would oppose the extradition proceedings.

The 39-year-old is wanted in Sweden where he spends much of his time. Two female WikiLeaks volunteers claimed he sexually assaulted them during a visit he made to the country in August.

Assange was arrested earlier today by British police under a European arrest warrant after he turned himself in.

His lawyer Mark Stephens, speaking after the hearing, described the case as politically motivated.

He said his client had still not seen full details of the allegations against him.

The defence alleges the case is influenced by Washington’s outrage at WikiLeaks’ disclosures.

As some prominent supporters such as filmmaker Ken Loach and journalist John Pilger left court after the hearing, Assange’s lawyer said there would be another application for bail.

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