Actor Russell Crowe has urged the Australian Government to give US rapper Snoop Dogg a visa to perform in the country.

The rapper's application to travel to Australia is currently being reconsidered by immigration officials after he was banned last year for drug and weapons offences.

The rapper, who has faced similar troubles in the UK, is scheduled to tour Australia this autumn alongside fellow hip-hop star Ice Cube.

In a letter to the government, Crowe wrote: "I submit to you that Snoop Dogg poses no threat to Australia or to any individual in this country.

"He has toured here three times before without incident and there are no reasons to assume this tour will be anything but the positive experience the last three have been.

"Snoop has built a stellar reputation with promoters and audiences worldwide."

According to the Australian Telegraph, Crowe also cited the rapper's charity work as a further example as to why he should be granted a visa.

(by Jason Gregory)