25 of the 62 Liberal Democrat MPs have called on Charles Kennedy to quit as leader of the party.
Yesterday, Mr Kennedy admitted he had sought treatment for a drink problem. He also called a leadership election.
In a statement issued this evening, the 25 MPs said they wanted to give Mr Kennedy a couple of days to reflect on his position after saying they were not prepared to serve under him if he does not resign.
Earlier, senior members of the party said their leader should face a confidence vote following his statement that he had overcome a problem with alcohol.
Two senior party members, Jenny Tonge and Nick Harvey MP, have said Mr Kennedy must consider whether his staying in office was in the best interests of the party.
