A shadow of mistrust has fallen over England’s Freemasons, as the United Grand Lodge of England prepares to challenge a controversial new policy by the Metropolitan Police. The force now requires officers to declare if they are members, effectively treating Freemasonry with the same scrutiny as a criminal conviction.
The decision stems from concerns raised about public perception and potential conflicts of loyalty within the police force. It was directly recommended by the Daniel Morgan Independent Panel, investigating the unsolved 1987 murder of private investigator Daniel Morgan, a case where Masonic connections among officers were noted.
However, the panel found no concrete evidence of corruption linked to Masonic membership in the Morgan case or its subsequent investigation. Their report simply highlighted doubts about whether the oaths sworn by Freemasons could supersede their duty to the public and their colleagues.
The UGLE vehemently disagrees with the Met’s approach, arguing it unfairly casts suspicion on its entire membership – a community that has spent decades working to dispel misconceptions. They emphasize significant efforts towards increased openness and transparency in recent years.
Grand Secretary Adrian Marsh stated the organization has “no choice but to take legal action” to defend the rights of its members, both past and present, who serve London with dedication. The UGLE believes the policy represents an unlawful infringement on their members’ rights.
Freemasonry, a society shrouded in intrigue, boasts approximately 200,000 members in England and Wales. Often associated with secret handshakes and elaborate ceremonies, it attracts both fascination and skepticism from the outside world.
Members themselves often highlight the substantial charitable work undertaken by Masonic lodges, with millions raised annually for various causes. Yet, the allure of a clandestine brotherhood and the rituals surrounding membership remain central to its appeal.
Initiation ceremonies, held four times a year, are described by insiders as theatrical performances rooted in the symbolism of King Solomon’s Temple. New members learn specific questions and answers, progressing through a series of carefully orchestrated “plays.”
Commander Simon Messinger of the Met defended the new policy, asserting that “public and staff confidence must take precedence over the secrecy of any membership organisation.” The force has acknowledged receiving a legal challenge from the UGLE but declined to comment further at this stage.
The legal battle promises to be a significant test case, potentially reshaping the relationship between Freemasonry and law enforcement in England and Wales, and raising fundamental questions about loyalty, transparency, and public trust.
