More than 2,000 Metropolitan Police officers and staff have declared membership of the Freemasons in an unprecedented transparency drive that makes the Met the first UK force to publish such data publicly.
A total of 2,118 individuals, including warranted officers and civilian staff, voluntarily disclosed their Freemason links as part of efforts to rebuild public trust and address concerns about potential conflicts of interest within London's largest police force.
The disclosure follows a 2023 review that highlighted the need to tackle perceived secrecy and potential undue influence within the organisation. No other UK police force has proactively published similar data, setting the Met apart in its push for openness.
The relationship between police and Freemasonry has long drawn public scrutiny, with critics raising concerns about potential favouritism and "old boys' networks" that could undermine impartiality. Whilst Freemasonry describes itself as a charitable and social organisation, questions about its influence within public institutions have persisted.
Senior Met figures stressed the declarations do not indicate wrongdoing, but represent a commitment to transparency and accountability. The move forms part of wider reforms aimed at restoring confidence in the force following a series of scandals that have damaged its reputation.
The Met confirmed the data will be updated annually, ensuring ongoing transparency and allowing continuous monitoring of declared affiliations amongst its 45,000-strong workforce.