Fantastic, I'll take the latter as definitive!
So to put it simply, you do not have to take the RTF practical test as part of your JAA PPL however; it is highly recommended that you complete your FRTOL before you go off on solo navigation flights to reduce the workload if nothing else
RT practical doesn't have to be part of the 18 month window, however highly recommended it is.
Interesting texts there from Lasors too, will read closer, thanks for that input. Will get in touch with my instructor when he starts work at the beginning of the week.
Thanks for the very quick response guys.
Raptor.