Hi Folks,
Mant thanks to all those who have contributed. It seems the CAA accept the 18 month time slot, but the following extract from the current LASORS Sec. B is the root of the confusion.
Validity - The RTF written examinations and
practical test are valid for a period of 12 months for
licence issue. Where a candidate completes the
examinations for a FRTOL in conjunction with a
course of training for a JAR-FCL private pilots
licence, the validity of the radiotelephony
examinations may be extended to 24 months from
the date of passing the last PPL theoretical
examination, provided that all examinations are
passed within a 12 month period and that
application for both licences is made concurrently.
PPL holders who subsequently apply for a FRTOL
will be required to meet the 12-month validity
requirements.
This seems to say that the Radio Licence extended validity clause only applies if the Written RTF paper that is normally part of the PPL course, is completed with the other papers, in a 12 month slot.
Probably best leave well alone, but maybe this section of LASORS needs an upgrade or at least a clarification.
Tks again
BobD