If the opposition division is of the opinion that, taking into consideration the amendments made by the patent proprietor during the opposition proceedings, the patent and the invention to which it relates meet the requirements of the EPC, it will issue an interlocutory decision to maintain the European patent as amended.[Art. 101(3)(a); Rule 82(1); Rule 82(2); ]

The procedure specified in D‑VI, 7.2.1 to D-VI, 7.2.3 will precede the final decision.