Ok,
so (unless this is deemed technically incorrect by UE staff)
my crude rule-of thumb could be:
Use ‘Text’ variables where localised alpha-numeric display is required
Use ‘Name’ variables for alpha-numeric network sends/receives, or where a smaller memory footprint is desired
Use ‘String’ variables for all other alpha-numeric requirements, unless forced to cast, or if you know in advance that you will be using string manipulation functions
Thanks guys.