Thanks for the inputs guys.
So, clear as mud then........
My worry is that my current company won't authorise my, and any other FOs, to do a skills test for the ATPL. I fear they are employing delaying tactics until the EASA rule change makes it a permanent no go.
I don't want to be stuck working there forever as without an ATPL it rules out Emirates etc etc.
Am considering doing the license test in my own time. Just trying to work out if I would be wasting my money.