'Please don't go' plea to experienced Rhodri; PM SHUFFLES PACK.

RHODRI Morgan was urged last night to stay on as Welsh Labour leader to steer the party through the turmoil it faces after the MPs expenses fury, ministerial resignations and expected drubbing from voters.

A potential candidate to replace Mr Morgan said he should now postpone his plan to step down in September to avoid more damaging instability.

Merthyr Tydfil AM Huw Lewis wrote to Mr Morgan asking him to reconsider.

He said: "These are the most challenging times that our country and our party have faced for generations and I have come firmly to the view that, for the good of both, you should stay on in your roles as leader and first minister.

"Your stated desire to step down around the time of your 70th birthday is wholly understandable, but I think that a firm and experienced hand at the tiller is what we need in these tough times."

Mr Lewis revealed his move to Labour party members in Rhyl.

"As we all look on in horror at the turmoil currently unfolding at Westminster, it's clear here in Wales we must do everything we can to avoid instability and splits at a time when people are looking to us on the bread and butter issues of jobs, pay, education and regeneration."

CAPTION(S):

First Minister Rhodri Morgan