Ahmed, 64, formerly Lord Ahmed of Rotherham, was convicted yesterday of serious sexual offences against a girl and a boy dating back more than 40 years. A woman told a jury at Sheffield Crown Court that Ahmed tried to rape her in the early 1970s, when the defendant was about 16 or 17, but she was much younger. The former politician was also found guilty of a serious sexual assault against a boy under 11, also in the early 1970s.

       Judge Mr Justice Lavender bailed Ahmed to appear at the same court for sentencing on February 4. His conviction follows a tortuous prosecution, including a previous trial being halted due to failings in disclosing evidence.

       Rosemary Ainslie, head of the CPS special crime division, said: "This case clearly illustrates that where there is sufficient evidence, even in challenging cases, the CPS will bring a prosecution."