Dependent ILR Query - (Most of us might have these queries)

[t2ilr]

Please can you try to answer my following two queries as I am unable to get an answer from UKBA web site. Many thanks in advance!

Query 1 –
After living together for 4 years a 'Tier 2 dependant partner' went to home country for 11 months on maternity leave (in full time employment) and came back to UK almost 5 month prior to ILR application date then,
>>Can Tier 2 dependant partner apply for ILR along with Tier 2 migrant?

Additional detail (Query 1):
1. ‘Tier 2 dependent partner’ current visa has been granted on April-2012 from India while she was on maternity leave
2. ‘Tier 2 dependent partner’ has no gap in her visa as she always applied with main applicant except mentioned in above scenario (point 1)

Query 2 –
When a Tier 2 dependant partner is not eligible to apply for ILR at the same time as their partner and their partner is granted ILR then,
>>Can Tier 2 dependant partner directly apply for ILR without having to "switch" into the partner of a person who is settled in the UK category?

Additional detail (Query 2):
1. Tier 2 dependent partner has valid Tier 2 dependent visa till he/she become eligible for ILR

[t2ilr]

Please help!