reports he has applied for the top job at the hotel.

Sonesta has yet to appoint a replacement for president Joseph Violi who intends to return to the US by November 1.

When Mr. Violi took over from former Sonesta chief David Boyd in 1996, some felt Mr. Tucker deserved the post. He, in turn, threw his support behind Mr.

Violi. Yesterday, Mr. Tucker said: "I would prefer to make no comment whatsoever.''