@Kevin ****
Obviously too difficult for you. The question is "Do I need to have an ASQ booked for my COE application or book once received ASQ. I have a flight provisionally booked"
It is simple, no you don't need the ASQ booked to apply, yes, you book it once approved.
It is NOT required for the application, neither is the CoE in hand, it is simply confirmed which allows for proceeding to fixing dates and the ASQ booking. We're done.