It's not that long before Episode 4, unlike the gap between things in the 3rd film to the 4th

If there was something so close to the 4th film then it's a little strange not to see it in the 4th film unless they find a way in the film to get rid of it.

They've been teased as a new type of Storm trooper from what I've read

A special team of Stormtroopers who are sent in for one thing...hunt and kill. Basically the elite, best of the best.

Yes, I totally agree! Felicity Jones is basically a copycat of Daisy Ridley's Rey. And it's so glaring with back to back Star Wars movies. They even look like they have the same body type.

I think we do often give British actors a bit too much credit because of their accents and so many of them are shipped over. There are quite a few that have just been one-trick ponies. I realize they filmed in the UK, but the original Star Wars movies did too and they didn't have everyone British (Luke, Han, etc). I think if they really looked at American actors, there are some great character actors to choose from. Even in "The Force Awakens", I was blown away by Adam Driver's performance. I wasn't expecting it, but he did a fantastic job. His villainy was really in his acting and not makeup/props.

Speaking of filming in the UK, wouldn't it be more fitting to have Star Wars filmed somewhere secluded in California. Like getting designated parcels of land to build studios just for Star Wars movies; basically a blown-up version of Skywalker Ranch. It's obvious they're going to be making these movies for a while, why not give them their own sacred home for premieres, interviews, tours, all divisions of LucasFilm, etc. all in one place.