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The syntax for xsl:mode does not presently allow it to have abstract visibility, however, the syntax for xsl:accept allows us to use abstract visibility with a mode. Also, xsl:expose has syntax that makes it possible to declare it abstract. We do say, however, on xsl:expose: [ERR XTSE3010] It is a static error if the explicit exposed visibility of a component is inconsistent with its declared visibility... It puzzled me. I can see why we do not allow abstract modes, but perhaps this could be made a tad clearer, esp. in the sections on xsl:expose/xsl:accept?
The syntax for xsl:mode makes it clear that you can't declare a mode as abstract, and the tables in 3.5.3.1 and 3.5.3.2 make it clear (in my view) that you can't expose/accept something as abstract unless it was declared abstract in the first place. I'm reluctant to work on the basis that we should include a rule twice because readers are more likely to spot it. I think the rule is clear and no change is needed.
The WG agreed to close this as WONTFIX.