jacqui.c

...But the clones have to inform Joe of any deletions made...

No they don't. Joe would like them to of course as it enhances his control of Mudcat.

...I, for one, do not want to see threads hijacked to foster any particular poster's pet gripes or to have the filth that tended to accompany...

Nor do I, but I don't see any reason for editing to be done in secret. It just gives an opportinitgy for clones to carry out any personal vendetta they chose.