Government is still awaiting a decision from former Premier Sir John Swan on his plans for airport concessions.

It is thought that if no response is given soon a deadline for a decision could be set -- as airport chiefs are keen to press ahead with work on the new shops and cafes.

Sir John's Grape Bay Ltd. -- trading as McDonald's -- was recommended for the food and beverage concessions at the Airport.

However the Prohibited Restaurant Bill halted plans for a McDonald's, although Sir John could still open other types of restaurants.

The Transport Department wrote to Sir John before the New Year asking if he still intended to open food and drinks concessions at the Airport.

"We have written to Grape Bay, but we are still waiting for a response. We hope to have a response as quickly as possible, time is of the essence,'' said Transport Minister Wayne Furbert.

Leases for other concessions have already been tabled in the House of Assembly and if Grape Bay presses ahead with restaurant plans a new lease will have to be drawn up reflecting the change from a McDonald's.

If Grape Bay decides to pull out the food and beverage concessions will have to be re-tendered and laid before the House which is due to discuss the budget next month.

Airport officials want to have the majority of concessions opened by the end of May.

Mr. Furbert added: "We have not set a deadline for Grape Bay Ltd, but very soon we will have to make some tough decisions.''