Yes they can! Recently HQEFT and CAA have got together a scheme whereby you can count all your UAS/JEFTS hours as the qualifying needed to gain/renew a PPL. As we understand it, you only need to do 2 exams (Air Law and a.n.other) and the Final Flying Check or whatever it is, and as long as you are good enough, away you go.. .Don't know about IF hours being allowed to count towards a civvie IRT, or a mil. IRT crossover. Best ask the CAA about that one!