Craggenmore is correct - the CAA have recently changed the rules or, more correctly, have implemented the proper rules. You now need to have a valid MEIR to commence a first MPA type rating, and an IR is valid for only 12 months.
One of the TRTOs that I work for has recently had an application rejected because the trainee had not renewed his IR for 3 years before starting the type rating course - under the old rules that would have been OK, but not now.