Paragraph 7

Where an application is referred to F1the First-tier Tribunal, then if the reference is under paragraph 2 above and it appears to the F2First-tier Tribunal that the information supplied by the applicant to the rent officer is insufficient to enable a certificate of fair rent to be issued F3it shall notify the applicant accordingly.

In any other case where an application is referred to F4the First-tier Tribunal, it shall serve on the applicant a notice specifying a period of not less than 14 days from the service of the notice during which either representations in writing or a request to make oral representations may be made by him to the F5First-tier Tribunal.

Where, within the period specified under sub-paragraph (2) above or such further period as the F6First-tier Tribunal may allow, the applicant requests to make oral representations, the First-tier Tribunal shall give him an opportunity to be heard either in person or by a person authorised by him in that behalf, whether or not that person is an advocate or a solicitor.