The holder of a single-engine IR(A) who also holds a multi-engine class or type rating wishing to obtain a multi-engine IR(A) for the first time shall complete a course at an ATO comprising at least 5 hours instruction in instrument flying in multi-engine aeroplanes, of which 3 hours may be in an FFS or FNPT II.
When a rating expires the rating is
not cancelled and you remain
the holder of that rating. You cannot change the meaning of a word simply to suit a point of view. If it is required that the rating must also be valid it is reasonable for that to be clearly stated.