These are the current facts:
GID39
From that document:
PART 5 MULTI-ENGINE PISTON CLASS RATING (SINGLE-PILOT)
Introduction
To fly as pilot-in-command (PIC) of an aeroplane in the MEP class you must have an MEP Rating endorsed onto your licence.
3.Flying Experience Requirements for the Addition of an MEP rating
An applicant for a class rating for a single-pilot MEP aeroplane rating must produce evidence of having completed a minimum of 70 hours as pilot-in-command of aeroplanes.
Training Requirements
For rating issue you must:-
a) provide evidence of having completed a course of training at an authorised FTO or Type Rating Training Organisation (TRTO), following a syllabus recognised by the JAA, including the following:-
i) flying training consisting of not less than 2 hrs 30 min dual instruction under normal conditions of multi-engine operation, and not less than 3 hrs 30 min dual instruction in engine failure procedures and asymmetric flight techniques;
ii) a course of instruction consisting of a minimum of 7 hours theoretical knowledge instruction in multi-engine aeroplane operation;
b) pass a Licensing Skills Test (LST) conducted by an authorised Class Rating Examiner (CRE);
c) pass a theoretical knowledge written examination.
JAR-FCL1.261/1.262 refers.
There's no mention I can find of ab-initio MEP gubbins.