The Department of Public Service, through the Director for Public Advocacy, shall represent the public at such hearing when the matters involved result directly from a proposed increase in rates, tolls, or charges, or the issuing of stock, bonds, notes, or other evidence of indebtedness for which the approval of the Commission is required by law. In any proceeding, the Commission may request the appearance of the Attorney General or appoint a member of the Vermont bar to represent the interests of the public or State. (Amended 1959, No. 329 (Adj. Sess.), § 39(b), eff. March 1, 1961; 1979, No. 204 (Adj. Sess.), § 27, eff. Feb. 1, 1981.)