Glow starters produce well above mains voltage when they open. What exactly are you saying happens when the starter opens and the tube flashes at fullish brightness momentarily? Surely if the electrodes were warm enough the tube would stay on.
FWIW experience with manual start showed me that, on a traditional 240v inductor ballast, the tube strikes every time without fail when the start switch is opened. It surprised me, but it does. (Assuming its prewarmed)
I mean since the 40s. They certainly dont behave the way Atkinson describes, and havent for several decades. Given how much expertise & detail he goes into I seriously doubt he got it wrong in the book.
Didnt know about that. Like everything in the US, its the same as here but different.
NT