Article 20 Directions: general

(1)

In addition to its powers under rule 11, the Commission may, on the application of a party or special advocate or on its own initiative, give directions for the conduct of proceedings.

(2)

The power to give directions is to be exercised subject to these Rules, including in particular the obligation in rule 4(1) to secure that information is not disclosed contrary to the public interest.

(3)

Directions under this rule may be given orally or in writing.

(4)

Subject to rule 29, the Commission must serve notice of any written directions on every party and any special advocate.

(5)

Directions under this rule may in particular—

(a)

specify the length of time allowed for anything to be done;

(b)

vary any time limit imposed by these Rules or by a direction of the Commission;

(c)

require any party to file with the Commission and serve on the other parties—

(i)

further details of his case, or any other information which appears to be necessary for the determination of the appeal;

(ii)

witness statements;

(iii)

written submissions;

(iv)

an estimate of the time which will be needed for any hearing;

(v)

a list of any witnesses who will be called to give evidence;

(vi)

a chronology of events;

(vii)

a statement of any requirements for interpretation;

(viii)

any other document;

(d)

provide for—

(i)

a particular matter to be dealt with as a preliminary issue; or

(ii)

a pre-hearing review to be held;

(e)

relate to any matter concerning the preparation for a hearing;

(f)

specify—

(i)

the manner in which any evidence is to be given; and

(ii)

the witnesses, if any, to be heard;

(g)

provide for a hearing to be conducted or evidence given or representations made by video link or other electronic means;

(h)

make provision to secure the anonymity of the appellant or a witness.

(6)

The power to give directions may be exercised in the absence of the parties or of any special advocate.