You don't need to phone and ask, the requirement is there because it's the law.
Appendix III to Part-FCL
Before commencing a CPL(A) modular course an applicant shall be the holder of a PPL(A) issued in accordance with Annex 1 to the Chicago Convention.
The CPL(A) modular course includes both theoretical knowledge and flight training and you must hold a PPL(A) to start either element. This is 'hard' law and no exemption is possible.