Mayor of Tower Hamlets Lutfur Rahman has beaten MP for Bethnal Green and Bow Rushanara Ali to the title of the most powerful British Bangladeshi politician.

A wide range of influential Bangladeshi figures were recognised in the British Bangladeshi Power 100 list, which was unveiled at a Westminster awards ceremony attended by home secretary Theresa May and shadow business secretary Chuka Umunna.

Mr Rahman grabbed top spot in recognition of his responsibility in handling Tower Hamlets Council’s £1.2 billion budget.

Founder of the BB Power 100 list and Tower Hamlets Councillor Abdal Ullah said: “For 2013, we continue to pay tribute to those who are helping shape Britain for the better with their ideas, example, talent and success and have discovered some hidden jewels as well as celebrating the more well known personalities in the community.”

Other figures recognised included British kickboxing champion Ruqsana Begum and ITV London Tonight presenter Nina Hussain.