T2 ICT Short term to T2 General for different Employer

[TheGoldberg]

Hello,

I have read many topics but could not relate to my specific case which is as below:

1. Current Visa: T2 Short Term Staff
Current Company: X (Indian Based but has office in UK)
Visa Expiry Date: May 2018

2. New Visa: T2 General
New Company: Y (UK Based)
Visa Apply Date: Before May 2018 (i.e. before short term visa expiry date)
Job Advertisement in UK Home Office : Done
Salary: Above 73900 GBP

So basically new employer is hiring me while I am working in UK only. Below are queries:

Q1. What is cooling period to apply for T2 General? Can I apply right away or do I have to wait for 12 months of cooling period?
Q2. Since for first 52 weeks I do not have to pay for National Insurance, if I rejoin will my 52 weeks counter reset or my current stay will be counted in 52 weeks?
Q3. Any other visa on which I can work for new employer?


Many Thanks