Chief Minister Jyoti Basu proposed his name at the Left Front meeting and requested the front partners to accept the proposal.

Basu said he needed a deputy to look after some of his important work as his health did not permit him to devote full time to the chief minister's job.

The committee accepted his proposal but suggested setting up of a core committee to monitor the work of different departments. Basu assured the front partners that he would actively consider the suggestions.

Later, talking to reporters, front leader Biman Bose said there was no difference of opinion about Bhattacharjee's selection. RSP leader Debabrata Banerjee said his party had accepted Bhattacharjee as Deputy Chief Minister considering the health of Basu.

Bose said it was yet to be decided when Bhattarcharjee would take oath of office.

Basu had earlier requested the politbureau toallow him to retire because of old age and related ailments.

The politbureau, on the other hand, requested Basu to continue as Chief Minister till the next Assembly elections in the State and suggested the creation of a deputy CM's post to lessen his burden.