Sorry mate - the FE handbook is quite specific on this:
"Appendix 1 NOTES FOR THE EXAMINER CONDUCTING PPL, CPL AND IR SKILL TESTS
A2 Pre Test - PPL only. Evidence of adequate preparation and eligibility for test are to be recorded on Form FCL JAR 102. Skill tests must be started after successful completion of theoretical knowledge and communications exams and within 6 months of completing flight instruction. Subsequent tests must be completed within 6 months of the first attempt"
"Appendix 2 GUIDANCE NOTES FOR THE PPL SKILL TEST BRIEFING
INITIAL BRIEFING
Meet & Greet
Wx general picture. Does it look good enough for you to fly the Skill Test?
Establish ID
Establish the test requirement. KNOW EXACTLY WHAT YOU ARE TESTING.
- Evidence of completion of course of training and suitability to take the test (FCL 102).
- Evidence of successful completion of theoretical examinations.
(Etc, etc)"
What excuse can the Examiner possibly have had for failing to carry out this very basic pre-test check? I'm not sure quite why you think that it "will all sort out in the wash" - I had a PPL application rejected by the CAA because the Examiner who marked some of the theoretical exams had allowed his authorisation to lapse! Fortunately the CAA accepted that this was no fault of the applicant and allowed me to re-mark the papers.
But a Skill Test carried out before the theoretical exams have been completed? I wish Mrs C good luck with the CAA.....