Indeed, Band 4 staff are currently AHP. However, I can see the possibility that if push comes to shove, some newly qualified nurses might be force to take Band 4 posts if they cannot find Band 5...
Just thinking about that as well. In one Hospital Trust, there is a plan now of replacing Band 5 RN's with Band 4 posts. If a Band 5 will retire/leave, a Band 4 posts will be