QB Masters allow parties to increase normal 28-day extension to 56-days

In two CCMC hearings at the High Court yesterday before Master Davison and now today before Master Cook, the parties in two high value PI actions by their respective Counsel (Christian Du Cann appearing for the Defendant in each action) successfully requested a direction that the Court grant a 56-day extension as opposed to the usual 28-day order by which parties can generally seek consensual extension for compliance with directions without needing to apply to the Court. Given prevailing circumstances both Masters acceded swiftly to both requests. It remains to be seen if a Practice Directions along similar lines does not emerge in the near uncertain future.