The Metropolitan Police is considering a policy requiring officers to declare membership in Freemasonry, aiming to enhance transparency and trust within the force and the community.

This proposal follows recommendations from the Daniel Morgan Independent Panel report, which highlighted membership in such groups as a potential source of suspicion that could undermine public trust and investigations.

Met Commander Simon Messinger clarified that the intention is to maintain transparency, not to prohibit membership, and the force seeks to build trust through this move.

The Met has already strengthened its vetting policies in recent years, increasing refusal rates from 5% in 2020-21 to 11% in 2023-24, to ensure officer integrity.

The force plans to discuss the proposed policy change with the United Grand Lodge of England, the main authority of Freemasonry in England and Wales.

The Met emphasizes its rigorous vetting process as part of its broader efforts to uphold integrity and public confidence.

Police argue that knowing officers’ memberships could help maintain impartiality and prevent conflicts of loyalty, thereby strengthening public trust.

The Met is consulting with the United Grand Lodge of England and seeking input from the public and staff regarding this potential policy change.

Discussions are ongoing with the United Grand Lodge of England about the proposed policy, aiming to foster transparency and community trust.

The police state that the move is designed to improve trust with communities and officers, with consultations underway to shape the policy.