Have a look at the tips of the new growth. Sticky leaves can often mean aphids because they poo out their waste as what's called honeydew, basically a sugary substance as a by product of their use of the sap. It gathers on the lower leaves of whatever plant they're on. It can then be the host for sooty mould, which blackens the leaves (think about cars parked under lime trees and the mess they get covered in). It's sweet and sticky. Ants are attracted to it, obviously, as are, it seems from recent posts on this site, bumble bees and wasps. They feed on the sweet stuff. It does taste sweet, I've licked a few leaves to test it!

Just thought - could be scale insect, similar result, as they also produce honeydew. Probably info and pictures on this site

Thank you. I can't see anything on the leaves and have tasted! It does not taste sweet. One or two leaves look as though something has taken a bite but can't see anything. But thanks again for advice.

Maybe you will just have to wait patiently for a year or two before this beautiful rose begins to flower. It is very rampant but well worth growing if you have the space! It's great for scrambling through trees. if there isn't too much growth yet you could try spraying with Roseclear perhaps. Good luck with it!