The French authorities rejected on Friday a request for asylum by Wikileaks founder Julian Assange.

The French authorities rejected on Friday a request for asylum by Wikileaks founder Julian Assange.

Assange has been living for the past three years in Ecuador's London embassy, where he took refuge to avoid extradition to Sweden over ethical charges.

"France has received the letter from Mr. Assange. An in-depth review shows that in view of the legal and material elements of Mr Assange's situation, France cannot grant his request," a statement by President Francois Hollande's office said.

"The situation of Mr. Assange does not present any immediate danger. He is also the target of a European arrest mandate," it noted.

Le Monde daily earlier published an open letter by Assange to Hollande saying his life was in danger.

Meanwhile, Ecuador has been urged to hand over Assange as the costs to have him protected have increased to more than £11.1mn.

The British taxpayer is footing the bill for a team of three police officers to stand outside the Knightsbridge address in case the Australian-born steps outside the building and on to UK soil.