Berthos,
Personally I view the sliding pole in the same manner I would view the system used to deploy the kite.

When we were debating the rules we chose not to regulate the deployment system because we believed the modern use of kites on cats is relatively new and systems are still evolving, and may continue to evolve for some time. The main push behind this evolution is both the ease and efficincy of operation and the minimisation of windage.
Lets face it, the evolution of better spinnaker systems could have a real impact on how appealing the class is to both other cat sailors, but more importantly, potential sailors and current spinnaker and non spinnaker powered mono sailors.
I think the best most appropriate catamaran spinnaker setup has not yet been discovered and would not like to inhibit the discovery of this system. Who knows it may involve a sliding pole and may be discovered by an F16 sailor.

I agree with Wouter when he says the main issue would be that: when the kite is deployed the tip of the pole is always in the same position.
Provided this is achieved I see the sliding pole as a part of the deployment system.

Just the way I see it and what I thought we were trying to achieve with the rules.

Regards,
Phill