Happening at my work at minute but actually more complicated. We have a full time position available. Girl in part time position (different role) will be being made redundant. Was advised (by HR firm) to offer job to part time person sit her down explain role and hours offer training etc etc before I advertised full time position externally. Ball is in her court now. As above poster said think they could be in a bit of bother with this as it is the exact same role. They should have asked your wife if she was available to work full time hours.