(1)  Subject to subrule (2) , pleadings are to continue until the substantial matter in dispute between the parties has been definitively shown by the pleadings.

(2)  A party who in a pleading subsequent to a defence or to a reply to a counterclaim would, if he or she were to deliver the pleading, merely deny or not admit the facts alleged in the immediately preceding pleading is not to deliver any such pleading.

(3)  At the expiration of the period limited for the delivery of any such pleading –

(a) every material fact alleged in the immediately preceding pleading is taken to have been denied; and

(b) issue is taken to have been joined on every allegation; and

(c) the pleadings as between the relevant parties are closed.