The sexual history of the woman who has accused Jacob Zuma of rape may be discussed during cross-examination on Tuesday, the Johannesburg High Court has ruled.

"The defence is given leave to cross-question the complainant about her past sexual history and to lead evidence in respect thereof."

Zuma's lawyers made the application in terms of Section 227 of the Criminal Procedure Act.

The Act bans an alleged rape victim's sexual history from a trial, unless the judge grants permission.

Judge Willem van der Merwe said he was allowed to later rule that some evidence was irrelevant.

 With acknowledgement to Sapa.