Assange not facing 'secret' trial
Claims Julian Assange would face a "secret trial" on sexual assault charges in Sweden are inaccurate, a UK extradition hearing has been told.
Clare Montgomery QC, for the Swedish authorities, said evidence from a trial would be heard in private but the arguments would be made in public.
The Wikileaks founder's lawyer said his client might not have a fair trial.
Sweden wants Mr Assange to face sexual assault claims, which he denies. The case was adjourned to 24 February.
At Belmarsh Magistrates' Court in south-east London, Geoffrey Robertson QC, representing the Wikileaks founder, said rape trials in Sweden were "secret" and heard behind closed doors - a claim that was denied by representatives of the Swedish authorities.
In addition to this, he said, criticism of Mr Assange by Sweden's prime minister could damage his chance of a fair trial.
Fredrik Reinfeldt's remarks had shown "complete contempt for the presumption of innocence", he said.
Mr Robertson told the hearing that the prime minister's comments this week had created a "toxic atmosphere" in Sweden.
Comments