Failure of parties to the investigation to attend any hearing E+W+S

13.—(1) If a party to the investigation fails to attend or be represented at a hearing of which he has been duly notified, the Pensions Ombudsman may—

(a) conduct the hearing and determine the complaint or dispute in the party’s absence;

or

(b) adjourn the hearing.

(2) Before deciding to dispose of any case in the absence of a party, the Pensions Ombudsman shall consider any representations in writing submitted by that party in response to the notice of hearing.