Met Police Considers Requiring Officers to Declare Freemason Membership After Corruption Report

The Metropolitan Police is consulting on a proposal that would require officers and staff to declare if they are members of the Freemasons, adding the organization to its declarable associations policy. This move follows concerns raised about the potential impact of Freemason membership on investigations, promotions, and misconduct, highlighted by the 2021 Daniel Morgan Independent Panel report which called police officers' Freemason ties a source of mistrust. While membership would still be allowed, disclosure would help the force assess and manage risks to integrity and public confidence. The Metropolitan Police Federation opposes the proposal, arguing it violates officers' human rights under the European Convention on Human Rights, citing privacy and freedom of association concerns. Officials emphasize that the policy aims to strengthen trust within the force and with the public by identifying potential conflicts of interest without banning memberships. The consultation also considers other organizations that might present similar conflicts, reflecting ongoing efforts to address institutional issues raised by past corruption inquiries.