13.—(1) An application by a respondent to stay or dismiss a petition before the day fixed for the trial shall be made by motion to the election court or a Divisional Court at such time and place as the court may appoint.
(2) Not less than seven days before the date so appointed the respondent shall serve notice of motion, stating the grounds thereof, on the petitioner, any other respondent, the returning officer and the Director of Public Prosecutions, and shall lodge a copy at the election petitions office.