The United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE), along with The Order of Women Freemasons and the Honourable Fraternity of Ancient Freemasons, has initiated judicial review proceedings against the Metropolitan Police. This follows the Met’s announcement on 11 December 2025 that it had added Freemasonry to its list of declarable associations.
Under the new policy, police officers and staff who are or have been Freemasons must now declare their membership during vetting procedures. UGLE contends this mandatory declaration is unlawful and discriminatory.
Statement from the Grand Secretary
Adrian Marsh, Grand Secretary of UGLE, stated:
“Freemasonry has the highest moral and ethical standards… The decision by the Metropolitan Police casts an aura of mistrust over the entire Freemason community.”
Legal Arguments
UGLE argues the decision:
- Violates fundamental rights of members
- Breaches the Equality Act 2010
- Contravenes UK GDPR requirements
- Resulted from inadequate consultation
Criticisms of the Consultation Process
UGLE contends the consultation was insufficient, noting that less than 5% of the Met’s 40,000 officers completed the survey. The organisation also states that internal intelligence used to justify the decision remains undisclosed, no genuine engagement occurred with UGLE leadership, and the Met’s characterisation of Masonic mutual support obligations was misleading.
Historical Context
UGLE emphasises that it has increased transparency over the past 30 years, including publishing lists of senior members publicly at Freemasons’ Hall in London.
The Metropolitan Police Federation has similarly opposed the policy as potentially violating human rights.
Source: United Grand Lodge of England