66.1bis

a) Subject to paragraph b), the written opinion established by the International Searching Authority under Rule 43bis.1 shall be considered to be a written opinion of the International Preliminary Examining Authority for the purposes of Rule 66.2a).

b) An International Preliminary Examining Authority may notify the International Bureau that paragraph a) shall not apply to the procedure before it in respect of written opinions established under Rule 43bis.1 by the International Searching Authority or Authorities specified in the notification, provided that such a notification shall not apply to cases where the national Office or intergovernmental organization that acted as International Searching Authority is also acting as International Preliminary Examining Authority. The International Bureau shall promptly publish any such notification in the Gazette.

c) Where the written opinion established by the International Searching Authority under Rule 43bis.1 is not, by virtue of a notification under paragraph b), considered to be a written opinion of the International Preliminary Examining Authority for the purposes of Rule 66.2a), the International Preliminary Examining Authority shall notify the applicant accordingly in writing.

d) A written opinion established by the International Searching Authority under Rule 43bis.1 which is not, by virtue of a notification under paragraph b), considered to be a written opinion of the International Preliminary Examining Authority for the purposes of Rule 66.2a) shall nevertheless be taken into account by the International Preliminary Examining Authority in proceeding under Rule 66.2a).