I have quoted from the River Thames Alliance website: "The River Thames Alliance is a partnership of public and private sector organisations, set up in June 2003 to help manage the future of the non-tidal Thames. There are now 78 member organisations of the Alliance which is chaired by David Suchet." Essentially the Alliance has been set up by the EA, members include Local Councils, River User Groups, National Trust, English Heritage, National Association of Boatowners etc etc. The main aim of the alliance is to implement the Thames Waterways Plan. More info can be found at riverthamesalliance.com. I don't think its too late for David Suchet to speak out and I am sure the Lock-keepers' wives would be more than happy for him to join the campaign!