27.—(1) Subject to the following paragraphs, the Tribunal must hold a hearing before making a decision which disposes of proceedings unless—
(a)each party has consented to, or has not objected to, the matter being decided without a hearing; and
(b)the Tribunal considers that it is able to decide the matter without a hearing.
(2) This rule does not apply to decisions under Part 4.
(3) The Tribunal may in any event dispose of proceedings without a hearing under rule 8 (striking out a party's case).
(4) In a criminal injuries compensation case—
(a)the Tribunal may make a decision which disposes of proceedings without a hearing; and
(b)subject to paragraph (5), if the Tribunal makes a decision which disposes of proceedings without a hearing, any party may make a written application to the Tribunal for the decision to be reconsidered at a hearing.
(5) An application under paragraph (4)(b) may not be made in relation to a decision—
(a)not to extend a time limit;
(b)not to set aside a previous decision;
(c)not to allow an appeal against a decision not to extend a time limit; or
(d)not to allow an appeal against a decision not to reopen a case.
(6) An application under paragraph (4)(b) must be received within 1 month after the date on which the Tribunal sent notice of the decision to the party making the application.