‘Martyn’s Law’ introduced to Parliament

New legislation requiring UK venues to step up protection against terrorism has been introduced to Parliament, more than seven years on from the attack at the then Manchester Arena which claimed the lives of 22 people.

The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill is also known as ‘Martyn’s Law’ in tribute to Martyn Hett, who was one of the victims of the attack following an Ariana Grande concert. It will make sure venues across the UK must consider the security of the public, and take steps to protect them from harm.

Under the changes, a new duty will be placed on those responsible for premises and public events, requiring them to take appropriate action to strengthen public safety, with requirements reflecting the size of the venue and the activity taking place.

As set out in the bill, those responsible for premises will be required to fulfil necessary steps, according to their capacity, to help keep the public safe. A standard tier premises will apply to locations with a capacity of more than 200 people but under 800. These businesses will be asked to put in place procedures to reduce harm to the public in the event of an attack. These could be as simple as training staff to lock doors, close shutters and identify a safe route to cover.

The enhanced tier will apply to premises and events with a capacity of more than 800 individuals, given the devastating impact an attack could have in these spaces. These locations will need to put in place measures such as CCTV or hiring security staff.

The Guardian reports the Home Office estimates the new law will apply to about 24,000 larger venues, with a capacity of 800 and above, who will face average costs of about £5,000 (€5,926/$6.573) per year as a result.

Sanctions for flouting the rules could initially include being issued with warnings such as compliance notices, ranging to fines of up to £18m.

Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper, has stated the Security Industry Authority (SIA) should be the body to take on the responsibilities of the Martyn’s Law regulator. This new work will be separately funded.

The attack at the venue now known as the AO Arena took place on May 22, 2017. After which extensive consultation took place with the public, businesses and campaign groups to strengthen security measures at UK venues.

In May 2023, the Government published draft legislation, but matters have been delayed since then. On this year’s seventh anniversary of the attack, then-Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, pledged that Martyn’s Law would be passed by this summer.

However, a general election was called later the same day resulting in the previous bill failing to be brought into action. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer had promised he would enact the bill if he was elected Prime Minister and that has now come to pass.

Cooper said in a statement yesterday (Thursday): “Martyn’s Law has been a long time coming. I want to pay tribute to Figen Murray and her campaign team who have tirelessly worked to make this happen.

“This legislation will strengthen public safety, help protect staff and the public from terrorism and ensure we learn the lessons from the terrible Manchester Arena attack and the inquiry that followed. It is important we now take this forward through Parliament in Martyn’s memory and to help keep people safe.”

Figen Murray, the mother of Martyn Hett, has been the most prominent campaigner for the bill. She said: “I want to thank everyone who has played a part in getting the bill to this stage, and especially the Prime Minister, who gave me his word that he would act quickly to introduce Martyn’s Law. He said he would act quickly and he has.

“Today means we are one step closer to making public spaces safer for everyone. It is also hugely important for my family that Martyn’s Law will be on the statute book ahead of the next anniversary of Martyn’s death.”

Following Royal Assent, the Home Office said businesses will be given time and support to understand and implement their new obligations and allow for the new regulator to be established. This will include dedicated guidance so that those affected will have the required information on what to do and how best to do it.