As I said - there are reasons for thinking the "new" way as better and I absolutely agree with you. I've been taught to use 30 degrees when the speed on base leg is 70 knots. 20 degrees would certainly be more advisable at 65 knots. There was a difference in circuit height between this airfield and the usual 1000 feet agl so the base leg is flown 5 knots slower.
Thanks for pointing this out.