Sec.  1.1522   Answer to application.

   (a) Within 30 days after service of an application Bureau counsel may file
   an answer to the application. Unless Bureau counsel requests an extension of
   time for filing or files a statement of intent to negotiate under paragraph
   (b) of this section, failure to file an answer within the 30-day period may
   be treated as a consent to the award request.

   (b) If Bureau counsel and the applicant believe that the issues in the fee
   application can be settled, they may jointly file a statement of their
   intent to negotiate a settlement. The filing of this statement shall extend
   the  time  for filing an answer for an additional 30 days, and further
   extensions may be granted by the Administrative Law Judge upon request by
   Bureau counsel and the applicant.

   (c) The answer shall explain in detail any objections to the award requested
   and identify the facts relied on in support of Bureau counsel's position. If
   the answer is based on any alleged facts not already in the record of the
   proceeding, Bureau counsel shall include with the answer either supporting
   affidavits or a request for further proceedings under  Sec. 1.1526.