Julian Assange lawyers argue UK arrest warrant 'has lost its purpose'

Lawyers for Julian Assange are taking a case to court, arguing that a UK arrest warrant against him has "lost its purpose".

The WikiLeaks founder has been living in the Ecuadorian embassy in London for more than five years after he was wanted for questioning by Swedish prosecutors.

A European Arrest Warrant was issued, but the Swedish prosecutor dropped the investigation last year.

Mark Summers QC told Westminster Magistrates' Court on Friday that the warrant had "lost its purpose and its function".

Mr Assange believes he faces extradition to the United States for questioning over the activities of WikiLeaks if he leaves the embassy.