Police reforms to progress equality for women and ethnic minorities are being blocked by the Freemasons, it has been claimed.

Steve White, the Police Federation chairman for England and Wales, said a number of people within his organisation 'suspected' members of the secretive group have been an 'obstacle' to changes.

But the Masons completely deny the claims, saying they uphold 'values in keeping with public service and high morals'.

Steve White, the Police Federation chairman for England and Wales, said a number of people within his organisation 'suspected' members of the secretive group have been an 'obstacle' to changes

Mr White, who is stepping down from his role, told The Guardian: 'What people do in their private lives is a matter for them. When it becomes an issue is when it affects their work.

'There have been occasions when colleagues of mine have suspected that Freemasons have been an obstacle to reform.

'We need to make sure that people are making decisions for the right reasons and there is a need for future continuing cultural reform in the Fed, which should be reflective of the makeup of policing.'

The Masons are shrouded in mystery and many people believe that they serve the interests of its members over the general public.

According to The Sun, Mike Baker, spokesman for the United Grand Lodge, the governing body for most freemasons in England, said: 'Why would there be a clash?

'It's the same as saying there would be a clash between anyone in a membership organisation and in a public service.

'We are parallel organisations, we fit into these organisations and have high moral principles and values.'