Hi Rik, the hobby as it stands is very much in favour of live steam running on 32mm gauge track and the booklet does reinforce that message but that is understandable taking into account the history of 16mm. It is still, in my humble opinion, a very good read and very well put together.
I've experienced bad atmosphere from some steamy traditionalists when I've expressed my preferences for battery powered locos. Most of my loco collection will eventually be almost exclusively battery powered for both steam and diesel outline. This does allow for much more control over the starting/stopping/shunting etc. (Noting some of Riks videos) I will keep a couple of live steamers but they will probably be for through running when operation permits. My railway is a continuous run layout with long passing loops to cater better for them.
I think there is room for all of us in the Association.