(a) At the time and place set for hearing by the commissioner, each party of record may present oral argument with respect to the application and with respect to the documents and briefs filed therein, but the oral argument shall be based on the written material which has been filed in connection with the application or protest and shall not include new information. The hearing officer may limit the amount of time for oral argument of each party of record; however, not more than one hour shall be allowed for all oral argument against an application and not more than one hour shall be allowed for all oral argument in favor of an application. In the event that a person appears at such hearing in protest without having filed any documents or briefs as provided in Section 103.120(e), such person may make an oral statement limited to not more than 15 minutes in duration, or such shorter time as may be allowed by the hearing officer.

(b) A hearing for branch applications will be scheduled only if the commissioner considers it to be necessary. Protests from objectors of record and competing applicants will be considered by the commissioner in making a determination.