The post you are reporting:
#68
Did we not exhaust the subject of those whose inaction on the forum had led to their membership being considered as 'lapsed', and their 'seat' falling available to another, some time ago? It was asserted at that time that such folk could rejoin without any hassle, if there was a vacancy.
While there is something mysterious about the process of 'banning', I am sure much of this has to do with the individual's privacy, and some do receive the occasional tip as to their conduct before the axe falls. If the exclusions were to be of an entirely temporary manner their incidence would surely increase and relationships/inter-relationships would be severely tested. As things stand, as I understand it, if somebody's behaviour goes beyond the bounds, a discussion is held among those charged with the running of the forum and action is taken to remove a member, I understand also that a new approach can be made for reinstatement.
Perhaps a middle way could be found:Warning, short term ban, long term ban. I am a little uneasy about permanent exclusion, especially of any member with a track record of pertinent participation.