Possible timetable

18 March: MPs given "indicative" votes Before Easter: ministers' proposals November: Bill proposed in Queen's Speech Autumn 2003: Ban could be in place

In Monday's vote, MPs will give their verdict on three controversial options: an outright ban, a system of licensed hunts or maintaining the status quo.

Mr Michael said he will listen to all arguments and see how the two Houses of Parliament vote before putting forward his proposals.

He denied he was trying to negotiate a "third way" on the issue, following speculation he was trying to broker a deal to allow fox-hunting to continue, although under licence, while another blood sport, hare coursing, is banned.

Alun Michael will draw up plans after the vote

Speaking to the BBC on Monday, Mr Michael said: "I have a lot of ideas because I have listened to a lot of people.

"But what we promised in our manifesto was to enable Parliament to have a free vote and then I will make a statement in the light of those two debates, suggesting a way forward."

Welsh farmers leaders have repeated their claim that the activity is vital to control foxes at lambing time.

But their argument is rejected totally by anti-hunt campaigners.

More hunts

According to evidence submitted to the government's Burns inquiry, there are more hunts to the square mile in Wales than any other part of Britain.

Hunts have insisted they provide a vital service to farmers particularly at lambing time.

But opponents have rejected that as simply an excuse for a "bloodthirsty pastime".

Despite devolution, this is an issue which will be decided at Westminster.

A National Assembly for Wales inquiry into hunting has yet to report back.

Although they do not have any say in the decision directly, Assembly Members do hope to be able to influence the debate.

MPs have already voted in favour of a ban twice, and are expected to repeat that decision during Monday's "indicative" vote.