Freemasons Seek Injunction Against Metropolitan Police Membership Declaration Policy
On 24 December 2025, the Freemasons filed papers in London seeking an emergency High Court injunction to halt the Metropolitan Police’s new policy that requires officers to declare any membership in hierarchical organisations such as the Freemasons. This policy, introduced in December 2025 by Met Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley, aims to address perceived conflicts of interest and preserve public impartiality by requiring officers to disclose memberships in organisations whose members support and protect each other.
The Freemasons contend that the policy constitutes religious discrimination, as members must have religious faith, and argue that the consultation process on the policy was inadequate. They have sought a judicial review to challenge and scrap the policy. Adrian Marsh, chief executive of the Grand Lodge, has stated that the hearing is expected next month, describing the policy as illegal, unfair, discriminatory, and a breach of human rights. Marsh views the injunction as a measure to protect the integrity of members.
The Metropolitan Police have explained that the policy changes followed concerns that involvement in such organisations could raise questions about officers’ impartiality or create conflicts of loyalty. The force has committed to defending the judicial review and has declined further comments while proceedings continue.
There is ongoing discourse concerning alleged links between Freemasonry and corruption within the Metropolitan Police. A case of alleged wrongdoing has been associated with Freemasonry, and the inquiry into the 1987 Daniel Morgan murder noted several involved officers were Freemasons, although no evidence was found that masonic channels subverted justice. The Met has long held intelligence concerning potential corruption tied to Freemasonry, but nothing has been proven to a criminal standard. Police lodges exist, including the Manor of St James’s for Met officers and Sine Favore, established in 2010 by Police Federation members.
