-Caveat Lector- LETTER: MASONS AND POLICE Sir: The Freemasons of West Lancashire are delighted that Mr Bettison, the Chief Constable of Merseyside, has adopted an enlightened policy of requesting members of his force to register membership of all interests without singling out Freemasonry (letter, 26 August). His move will help to dispel that "great deal of unjustified paranoia about Freemasonry" highlighted by the Home Affairs Select Committee. Freemasonry is not and never has been a "secret society". Freemasons are encouraged to be open about their membership although, sadly, many feel that they will be discriminated against by the prejudiced and ill- informed if they do so. Lodge meetings, like those of many other groups, are private and open only to members. The rules and aims of Freemasonry are available to the public. Meeting places are known and are often used by the local community for activities other than Freemasonry. As a lawful and law-abiding body of men, Freemasons do not seek special treatment, only to be treated equally with every other citizen. Is that too much to expect? We salute Mr Bettison for acknowledging this. COLIN P WRIGHT Provincial Grand Master Masonic Province of West Lancashire Liverpool DECLARATION & DISCLAIMER ========== CTRL is a discussion and informational exchange list. Proselyzting propagandic screeds are not allowed. Substance—not soapboxing! These are sordid matters and 'conspiracy theory', with its many half-truths, misdirections and outright frauds is used politically by different groups with major and minor effects spread throughout the spectrum of time and thought. That being said, CTRL gives no endorsement to the validity of posts, and always suggests to readers; be wary of what you read. CTRL gives no credeence to Holocaust denial and nazi's need not apply. Let us please be civil and as always, Caveat Lector. ======================================================================== Archives Available at: http://home.ease.lsoft.com/archives/CTRL.html http:[EMAIL PROTECTED]/ ======================================================================== To subscribe to Conspiracy Theory Research List[CTRL] send email: SUBSCRIBE CTRL [to:] [EMAIL PROTECTED] To UNsubscribe to Conspiracy Theory Research List[CTRL] send email: SIGNOFF CTRL [to:] [EMAIL PROTECTED] Om
