Freemasons have filed for an emergency injunction at the High Court to block the Metropolitan Police's new policy requiring officers to disclose their membership of the organisation. The legal papers, submitted on Christmas Eve, allege religious discrimination and accuse Met Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley of 'making up the law on the hoof' and 'whipping up conspiracy theories'.
The policy, introduced in December, mandates that officers declare membership of any 'hierarchical organisation that requires members to support and protect each other'. The Met argues it is necessary to restore public trust, citing a survey showing two-thirds of staff support the measure due to concerns over police impartiality. Past claims have linked Masonic membership to corruption.
Adrian Marsh, chief executive of the United Grand Lodge of England, stated the Freemasons expect a hearing within weeks. He criticised the lack of consultation, calling the policy 'illegal, unfair and discriminatory' and a breach of human rights. The Freemasons contend that their requirement for members to have religious faith qualifies as a protected characteristic under equality law.
The Met has confirmed it will defend the policy, stating it was introduced following feedback about potential conflicts of loyalty. A spokesperson declined further comment while legal proceedings are ongoing. The case follows longstanding concerns about Masonic influence in policing, including recommendations from the Daniel Morgan murder inquiry.
