A British appeals court has deferred a decision on whether to extradite WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange to Sweden for questioning on sexual misconduct. The court did not specify when it would make its ruling.

Assange, an Australian, is seeking to overturn a February judgement ordering him to Sweden.

Assange denies any sexual wrongdoing and claims the extradition to Sweden is politically motivated. He fears if he is charged a fair trial would not be possible in Sweden.

The 40-year-old Assange's disclosure of sensitive, classified materials on WikiLeaks caused a media sensation and angered the U.S. government.

The U.S. government is examining whether criminal charges can be brought against Assange for the classified leaks. Assange fears an extradition to Sweden would possibly lead to an eventual extradition to the United States.

Assange is living under virtual house arrest on a supporter's estate in eastern England.