DeltaT - Our underlying concern is that with no proof of recent IR flying proficiency, e.g. proven / validated by (re)examination within, say, the last year, we have legitimate concerns that we'd be wasting both the applicants time, and our own, to put them through a sim assessment which even if current is 'challenging'.
And yes, we do know all about the old chestnut that "Well they've got to do an IR on the aircraft for the type rating anyway, so why do I need to bother renewing my lapsed one ? I've passed before, I can pass again !"..... Err, oh yeah ?!
Be it the sim assessment or the full type rating course, it's probably true to say that:
A). If you've been away from flying for a long'ish period, but got experience to fall back on, e.g. several thousand hours - whilst your scan will be rusty - you might hack it.
B). Similarly, if you've not got the experience, then you'll need to be current & sharp.
C). Lastly, if you're neither experienced or current, you'll need a lot of luck !