!!!Wrong!!!
JAR-FCL 1.250 states that, as a pre-requisite condition for training, the applicant for a first type rating on a multi-pilot aeroplane must hold a valid multi-engine instrument rating (A).
JAR-FCL 1.185 states that an IR(A) is valid for one year.
This has been confirmed by the CAA who promise also that LASORS 2005 will contain the correct information.