More than 300 Met Police staff declare Freemason links as High Court challenge unfolds

More than 300 Metropolitan Police officers and staff have now declared links to the Freemasons or other “hierarchical associations”, after the force introduced a new disclosure rule that is already facing a legal challenge in the High Court.

The Met announced in December that membership of the Freemasons, or any organisation with a confidential structure and expectations of mutual support, would be added to its declarable associations policy. Officers and staff were instructed to disclose any past or present involvement.

???? BREAKING Met Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley admits Freemasonry is linked to misconduct, favoritism & secrecy. A draft policy to confront it is coming—but why did it take decades? Daniel Morgan’s ghost is watching. #Freemasonry #MetPolice #TransparencyNow #BBC #Panorama pic.twitter.com/fd1PM0rz05

— Jam Radio UK News (@Jam_RadioUK) October 1, 2025

The United Grand Lodge of England, acting on behalf of the Order of Women Freemasons and the Honourable Fraternity of Ancient Freemasons, has launched legal action to suspend the policy while a full challenge is heard. They argue the requirement is discriminatory, risks stigmatising members, and may breach human rights and data protection law.

A court order issued on 2 January shows that Mr Justice Chamberlain declined to grant immediate interim relief. He noted that the policy is already in force and that more than 300 staff have complied, meaning there is no urgent need for an injunction. He also recorded that the Met has agreed to consider whether to withdraw the policy in light of representations from the women’s Masonic organisations, although the force has not indicated any intention to do so.

The Met confirmed that 316 officers and staff have declared involvement in Freemasonry or similar groups. A spokesperson for UGLE said the figure was unsurprising, as many members are open about their affiliation, but criticised the policy for placing those who prefer privacy under threat of disciplinary action.

The Met maintains that the disclosure requirement is part of a wider transparency drive. It cites an internal survey in which two‑thirds of respondents said membership of such organisations affects perceptions of police impartiality and public trust. Freemason groups dispute the validity of the survey, pointing out that fewer than five per cent of staff took part.

The High Court is expected to decide shortly whether the policy should be paused while the full challenge proceeds.

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