"Mark Rowley, the Met commissioner, was moved to act as part of his drive to show the public the force can be trusted. But the Guardian also understands that a recent case of alleged wrongdoing in the force contains allegations that acts under investigation may be linked to Freemasonry. The Met has held intelligence for years of potential corruption linked to personal relationships formed through membership of the Freemasons, but nothing has been proved."
"The Met says it surveyed its officers and staff with two-thirds backing the restriction because it affects public perception of police impartiality. Met Cmdr Simon Messinger said: After such conclusive results from our consultation, we have decided now is the right time to address longstanding concerns and that public and staff confidence must take precedence over the secrecy of any membership organisation. Our decision does not mean any member of staff cannot join the Freemasons or another similar organisation."
Metropolitan Police officers and staff must inform their superiors if they are current or former members of Freemasonry or similar hierarchical organisations that require members to support and protect each other. The rule was introduced amid longstanding concerns that fraternal ties could be linked to corruption and could undermine public perceptions of police impartiality. A force survey reportedly found two-thirds support for the restriction. The decision followed reports of a recent alleged wrongdoing case with alleged links to Freemasonry and long-held intelligence about potential corruption, though no proof has been established. The United Grand Lodge of England condemned the rule and may pursue legal action.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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