The number of views and the lack of answers has allowed me to determine that what I have has been pre-assembled and tested for a specific manufacturer. I am guessing that the hoses were disconnected from the levers and something like clingfilm is placed over the end of the barb for shipping, this material is not visible with the naked eye but it seems the only explanation. This set came via AliExpress and was cheaper than buying the two shift/brake levers, the hoses and calipers simply came as a free bonus perfect for a conversion from straights to drops. I am waiting for some other parts so I will give a definitive answer when I actually assemble everything. Thanks for all who looked and those made suggestions. My supposition was correct and removal was tricky, using needle and Stanley blade.
