Chapter IV – Examination of replies and further stages of examination

2. Extent of examination of replies

A revised version of this publication entered into force.

After the first examination stage, provided that the:

– search opinion,

– WO‑ISA (when prepared by the EPO),

– explanation accompanying the supplementary international search report under Rule 45bis.7(e) PCT (when prepared by the EPO, see the notice from the EPO dated 24 March 2010, OJ EPO 2010, 316, point 6),

– IPER (when prepared by the EPO), or

– first communication (see B‑XI, 1.1 and B‑XI, 8)

was comprehensive and clear (see B‑XI, 3 and C‑III, 4 and C‑III, 4.1), the examiner will not normally need to completely reread the application but rather should concentrate on the amendments themselves, the related passages, and the deficiencies previously noted.