Argh! Thought I asked this yesterday but must have closed the window without submitting it.
In this FAQ (http://www.triadweyrs.org/faq.php?fq_id=5) it says:
A member ... wishing to obtain rank should first ask the Level One Ranker in charge of the area in question for permission to submit a persona for a given rank. If the Level One Ranker gives permission, a sheet may be submitted ...
What's the procedure if the L1 is on LOA? Does this go up to the Council or down to the most suitable L2?
Send it right on to the council! :)