CONTROVERSIAL peer Lord Rennard returned to his seat in the Lords yesterday despite the row over sexual harrassment allegations.

The former Liberal Democrats chief executive was suspended last month pending an investigation into whether he had brought the party into disrepute by failing to apologise to women who made complaints against him.

A QC's inquiry into the claims concluded they were credible but there was insufficient evidence to bring disciplinary charges, and suggested that the peer should apologise.

Leader Nick Clegg has insisted he must apologise before he can regain the whip. The peer is entitled to a £300 daily allowance for sitting in the Lords.