As I thought, the word "deemed" is critical here. Noxopharm's...

As I thought, the word "deemed" is critical here.  

Noxopharm's patent attorney wrote on 21 April 2020 that "The applicant [Noxopharm] confirms that it wishes to proceed further with the above-referenced application".

And to make matters clear, the attorney added this:  "As a precaution, oral proceedings are requested should the examiner refuse this application without giving the applicant further opportunity to comment in writing".

My understanding is that the application has not lapsed at all and that Noxopharm has another three months in which to take action.


PCT applications feature a complex web of rules and regulations, which explains why Noxopharm uses Patent Attorney's to prosecute its case, and to ensure that no deadlines are missed.  Sorry to disappoint you, but well done for finding half the story.