Extension of time periods

In exceptional circumstances, the periods referred to in Article 5(1) and Article 7 may be extended by the Commission on its own initiative or, where applicable, at the Authority’s request, if the nature of the matter in question so justifies, without prejudice to Article 6(1) and Article 8(1). In such cases the Commission shall, where appropriate, inform the applicant and the Member States of the extension and the reasons for it.