An arrest warrant against WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange is still valid, Westminster Magistrates' Court has ruled.

Arguments were made by Assange's legal representatives that the warrant should be dismissed as it had "lost its purpose and function" following an investigation into a sex-related allegation being dropped.

Assange is still living in the Ecuadorian embassy, where he has resided for more than five years out of fear he is would be extradited to the US for questioning over the activities of WikiLeaks.

The outstanding warrant stands from 2012, which is in connections with the Swedish investigation, even through it was closed down a year ago.

Senior District Judge Emma Arbuthnot said at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Tuesday that she was not persuaded that the warrant should be withdrawn, despite the argument he still has no purpose.