Dear Brethren,

I attach a statement (see below) from the Grand Master Mason regarding relations with the Grand Loge Nationale Francaise which should be read out in open Lodge along with this letter.

Brethren will note that with immediate effect the Grand Lodge of Scotland has suspended recognition of the Grand Loge Nationale Francaise (GLNF). The effect of this action is as follows:

• Brethren are not permitted to be received as visitors from the GLNF in any Lodge under the Scottish Constitution.
• Brethren of the Scottish Constitution are no longer permitted to visit any Lodge working under the GLNF.
• Brethren who are members of the GLNF are not permitted to be affiliated to a lodge under the Scottish Constitution.

Yours sincerely and fraternally,
Grand Secretary
20th July 2011

STATEMENT BY THE GRAND MASTER MASON REGARDING THE GRANDE LOGE NATIONALE FRANCAISE

The Grand Lodge of Scotland has noted with increasing concern the continued disharmony within the Grand Loge Nationale Francaise which has seen internal disputes develop into legal actions, including the French Courts having now appointed an Administrative Receiver over the legal entity of the Grand Loge Nationale Francaise.

Whilst the Grand Lodge of Scotland has no wish to interfere in the internal affairs of another Grand Lodge the public schism within the Grand Loge Nationale Francaise and the manner in which it is being reported in the media is against the basic tenets of the Craft and is adversely contaminating the reputation of other Grand Lodges.

A meeting of the Grand Loge Nationale Francaise scheduled for 27th June 2011, at which it was hoped a resolution to the present situation could have began, was cancelled and there is no indication that harmony will be restored in the near future.

The continuing state of affairs in the Grand Loge Nationale Francaise is liable to damage the International status of Freemasonry and it is therefore necessary that the reputation of the Grand Lodge of Scotland be protected.

Accordingly, with the specific authority granted to me by the Grand Lodge of Scotland, with immediate effect I regretfully suspend recognition of the Grand Loge Nationale Francaise by the Grand Lodge of Scotland.

Charles lain Robert Wolrige Gordon of Esslemont
Grand Master Mason
20th July 2011