Q&A: Arrest of Wikileaks founder Julian Assange

Julian Assange began working on Wikileaks in 2006

The founder of whistle-blowing website Wikileaks, Julian Assange, has been told to return to court next month after making a brief court appearance in London. He has vowed to fight extradition to Sweden - but what are the issues involved?

Why was Julian Assange arrested?

Why was he originally refused bail? How usual was this, particularly given that he has not been charged?

What happens next?

What evidence will the UK take into account? Will it consider the defence claims that the accusations against Mr Assange are politically motivated?

Can he challenge a decision to extradite him? How long might the process take?

What would happen if the United States made a request to extradite Mr Assange from the UK?