I think its definitely a rumour, maybe in twenty years time when the griffin is falling apart they will make the decision. As it appears the RN hierarchy cannot even sort out oft slots for the graduates of strawberry. Whether this is a lack of money or foresight, i think a combination of both.
I think the major argument countering such a move is that RN pilots have made it through the pipeline by going straight onto type for many years, and i think a lot can be said for doing OFT on type as many exercises may not have to be taught twice ie. once on griffin and again on type.
Also do students really want to learn three sets of FRCs and flight systems and tech before then learning your frontline aircraft stuff? Its one more groundschool!!!!!! Nooooooooooo!!!!