About twelve boat people refugees in Australia have sewed the edges of their lips together in protest at the slow functioning of the Australian immigration system.

Officials said it was not clear how -- or precisely why -- the bizarre action had started, but that several had already had the stitches removed again.

The protestors, who are believed to be of Afghan or Middle Eastern origin, are all being held at a detention centre near the town of Derby in Western Australia.

They are reported to be frustrated at delays in processing their applications for refugee status.

The Australian government has said it will not be influenced by their action.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service