There's been a new development following the sudden resignation last month of the British minister for Wales, Ron Davies, after a scandal involving his private life.

His successor as Welsh secretary, Alun Michael, has announced he is to become a candidate for leader of a new Welsh assembly -- a post Mr Davies was expected to win.

Correspondents say Mr Michael has not been in the forefront of the drive for devolution in Wales, but enjoys the support of the prime minister, Tony Blair.

Next year, the people of Wales will, for the first time, elect their own assembly.

It forms part of the Labour government's plans to devolve some powers to the regions.