An examining division would not, as a general rule, require evidence to be produced. The primary function of the examiner in proceedings before grant is to point out to the applicant any ways in which the application does not meet the requirements of the EPC. If the applicant does not accept the view of the examiner, then it is for the applicants to decide whether they wish wishes to produce evidence in support of their case and, if so, what form that evidence should take. The examining division should afford the applicant a reasonable opportunity of producing any evidence which is likely to be relevant.

However, this opportunity should not be given where the examining division is convinced that no useful purpose would be served by it, or that undue delay would result.