"And those who agree with this this and those who see the merits of a members only forum as the only solution - can leave and form one that is to their requirements. "

It just won't sink in with you, will it? It doesn't matter who has the better solution. It isn't your call to make. People can do whatever the hell they want as long as the host allows it. Change can come to this precious forum whether you like it or not, and whether your arguements are just or not.   You have every right to complain, and keep posting, but whatever is going to happen will happen regardless of your efforts, my efforts, or Joe's efforts.