Premier David Saul last night said no decisions had been made on Cabinet changes.

And he dismissed as speculation reports that Maxwell Burgess -- involved in the controversial bid to bring McDonald's to Bermuda which led to civil war in the United Bermuda Party -- and rebel backbenchers Ann Cartwright DeCouto and Trevor Moniz would be considered as ministerial material.

"That is all pure speculation,'' Dr. Saul said. "I intend to speak to all 20 members of Parliament to get their opinions and input.'' But he added that a Cabinet reshuffle was on the cards "before the House reconvenes in February''.

And Dr. Saul said: "This thing just needs time and to be left alone. All I am doing, which is common courtesy, is having discussions -- which we can't do via the newspapers.'' The Royal Gazette reported yesterday that Dr. Saul had met two of the McDonald's rebels, Dr. Clarence Terceira and C.V. (Jim) Woolridge and that there were plans to meet another rebel, Dr. David Dyer.

And Government sources have tipped Mr. Woolridge, Dr. Terceira, and Dr. Dyer for the portfolios of Transport, Telecommunications and Environment respectively.

All three have said they would give serious consideration to an offer to join the Cabinet.

But last night Mr. Burgess refused to discuss any possible return to the Cabinet.

He said: "I'm not going to speculate -- I've been around too long for that.'' Premier Saul