Overview
- From 11 December, officers and staff must declare past or present membership of any hierarchical group with confidential membership that expects mutual support, with Freemasonry explicitly named.
- The Met characterizes the update as a transparency and risk‑management measure rather than a ban on joining such organisations.
- A two‑week internal consultation drew over 2,000 responses, with roughly two‑thirds saying such memberships affect perceptions of impartiality and public trust.
- The policy shift aligns with a 2021 Daniel Morgan Independent Panel recommendation and follows ongoing internal intelligence raising concerns.
- UGLE called the move unlawful and discriminatory and the Metropolitan Police Federation warned of human‑rights issues, while the Met said other organisations could be added if evidence warrants.