TBB
Couldn't attack you with goats, they're all quarantined because of the foot and mouth outbreak.
Jacko, I'm afraid that as each Lodge is registered as a charity and as charitable giving is the first thing one is taught about in a Masonic Lodge (oops, giving some of our secrets away) I disagree. I'm not disagreeing from idle speculation or rumour, but would suggest that you check out Registered Charity No. 1001298 (New Masonic Samaritan Fund) or any of the other masonis charities (all their names are availble from our head office).
There was a recent investigation into Masonry by a number of Parliamentarians. Interestingly they had to examine all of our ceremonies and all they could criticise was the words 'provide a column of mutual support' taken out of context.
I'm still surprised that you indulge in the 'I spoke to my mate' type of journalistic comment. You don't know, but your mate assures you, that there are cases of Masonic influence in the law and as such you would stop people belonging to the club or make them give up their chosen professions.
DW
I suspect the strange promotions are for reasons other than Freemasonry. If Freemasonry was a way to get advancement in the RAF, how come I never once got a posting I asked for and didn't get promoted (even though at one stage the Air Secretary was a Freemason). I've been a Mason since before joining my first squadron. I wish it was as easy as people make out.