by editorial board, The Guardian, 10th February 2023
The London Fire Brigade (LFB) is reviewing its relationship with the Freemasons after concerns were raised by the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) regarding the acceptance of a £2.5m donation from the Freemasons of London for specialist equipment, which carries masonic insignia.
The FBU has called for the insignia to be removed, citing the exclusion of women from much Masonic work and the fact that it is a secret society. The LFB is considering its options for this relationship now.
The concerns were raised at a recent London assembly meeting to discuss an independent review that found the LFB to be institutionally racist and misogynist.
The review was ordered by the London fire commissioner, Andy Roe, in response to the death of a firefighter who took his own life in August 2020.
