Heather Bryan: "Davies is thinking about accepting a non-Cabinet post"

The former UK Cabinet minister steered Welsh devolution through Parliament and fought for the Yes vote in the referendum, which led to assembly being formed.

But he resigned from the Welsh Office and as Labour's leader in Wales after a "moment of madness" on Clapham Common last October.

Ron Davies: Campaigned for devolution

His replacement, Alun Michael, was among those who praised Mr Davies for his work to secure the assembly during the first session of the assembly.

Mr Michael was also elected as the first secretary of the National Assembly on Wednesday.

Mr Davies is said to be angry about the decision to exclude him from power at the top level of the new assembly.

Ron Davies: "I am naturally disappointed"

But speaking afterwards he said he accepted his exclusion.

"I am naturally disappointed, but it's up to Alun Michael to make these judgements," he said.

"We have a different style of politics, I think. Alun has decided that he doesn't have a place for me in his team and that is something I have to accept."

Mr Davies said he had learned his fate directly from Mr Michael, but had not received an explanation.

"He was quite clear right at the outset that there was no place for me in his cabinet and that is his prerogative.

"We had a conversation but I didn't have any explanation from him."

But he dismissed the suggestion his exclusion could stem from fears he might be off message.

Alun Michael: Elected first secretary

"I don't know if there is a message at the moment, we've only just had the first meeting of the Welsh Assembly."

Among the cabinet members is Rhodri Morgan, who stood against both Mr Davies and later Mr Michael to lead Labour in the assembly.

During the session, Plaid Cymru peer Lord Dafydd Elis-Thomas landed the prestigious role of the assembly's presiding officer.

The assembly, to be opened formally by the Queen on 26 May, will not take over the powers of the Welsh Secretary and Welsh Office until 1 July.