They say they want more time before a decision is made on such a key appointment.

Refusing to commit himself: Alun Michael

New Welsh Secretary Alun Michael, who is under increasing pressure to stand for the job of first secretary, sidestepped the question when he was asked whether he would run.

Mr Michael addressed the Welsh Group of Labour MPs as they met at the House of Commons for their annual general meeting.

Welsh Group secretary Don Touhig said: "The group agreed unanimously that they felt desperately sorry for the tragedy that has befallen Ron and his family.

"They have asked that he should be written to, just underlining that a lot of people here are sympathetic and understanding and want to be supportive in any way they can to him and his family."

Mr Michael told the meeting that he was pleased and honoured to be Welsh Secretary but regretted the circumstances.

He also stressed his commitment to campaign on the government's key pledges on health and education.

The Wales Labour Party has decided to re-open the list of approved candidates for a fortnight, clearing the way for Mr Michael to join the contest.

Target of a fortnight

They have also set up a special "task force" to consider and recommend one of four options for how the new leader would be chosen "as a matter of urgency".

The MPs have now asked Mr Touhig to report back to them at their next meeting, in a fortnight's time.

If the process moves faster, an emergency meeting could be called.

Mr Touhig said: "Effectively the group wants an input into the discussion on the options before the matter is decided, as they did before."

Rhodri Morgan: Topped a poll

Supporters of MP Rhodri Morgan, who was defeated by Mr Davies in September for the position, warned that any moves by Labour headquarters to impose their favoured candidate could damage the party.

Dr John Marek, MP for Wrexham, who is backing Mr Morgan, said: "Anybody parachuted in by the Labour leadership will inevitably be seen as a poodle to the leadership, and their commitment will not be to the National Assembly."

Mr Morgan has gained a wide backing from grassroots members and topped a NOP poll for Welsh television channel S4C.

Caerphilly MP Mr Davies resigned from the cabinet and as Labour's candidate for the leader of the new assembly following "a serious lapse of judgement" on Clapham Common in south London last Monday night.

A man has been charged.