A HIGH Court judge is being asked to make legal history and sanction the UK's first sterilisation of a man "in his best interests".

Referred to as DE, the 36-year-old has learning difficulties and already has a son with his girlfriend. The court heard DE does not want to become a father again and another child could cause him psychological harm.

Experts have assessed DE is capable of consenting to sexual relationships, but he cannot be relied upon on to use birth control methods effectively.

Mrs Justice Eleanor King said she hopes to give her ruling within weeks.