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‘Martyn’s Law’ to be introduced for stronger anti-terror protections in UK venues

The new law will be named in tribute of Martyn Hett, who was one of 22 people killed in the 2017 Manchester Arena attack.

Emily Sergeant - 20th December 2022

A new law aimed at ensuring stronger protections against terrorism in venues across the UK is set to be introduced, the Home Office has announced.

It will be known as ‘Martyn’s Law’.

The new law will be named in tribute of Martyn Hett, who was one of 22 people tragically killed in the Manchester Arena attack back in 2017 – and will be introduced following the tireless campaigning of his inspirational mother, Figen Murray.

By working closely with security partners, business and victims’ groups – including Figen Murray and the Martyn’s Law Campaign Team, as well as Survivors Against Terror – the Home Office said the new law will require venues across the UK to “take steps to improve public safety”.

It adds that measures will be dependent on the size of the venue and the activity taking place.

Describing the terror threat level as “complex and ever-evolving”, with recent attacks having shown that terrorists may choose to target a broad range of locations, the Home Office explained that Martyn’s Law will ensure that security preparedness is delivered “consistently” nationwide to ensure better protection of the public.

The plans for the introduction of the new law have been developed following what the government has called “extensive engagement” across the industry, charities, local authorities, security experts, and with survivors.

It’s also been developed through public consultation – with 70% of the thousands who responded agreeing that those responsible for venues and publicly-accessible locations in the UK should take measures to protect the public from potential attacks.

“Martyn’s Law isn’t going to stop terrorism,” Figen Murray said on the news of the law’s introduction.

“But common-sense security, and making sure venues are doing all they can to keep people safe, could mean fewer suffer what myself and the families of Manchester have had to endure [so] I welcome the government’s commitment to including smaller venues and working quickly on this legislation.

“It is vital we now take the necessary steps to protect ourselves and others wherever possible and I hope other countries learn from this ground-breaking legislation.”

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak says he is “committed” to improving security measures at public venues and spaces.

“The way the city of Manchester came together as a community in the wake of the cowardly Manchester Arena attack, and the amazing work of campaigners like Figen Murray who have dedicated their lives to making us safer and promoting kindness and tolerance, is an inspiration to us all,” Mr Sunak commented.

“I am committed to working with Figen to improve security measures at public venues and spaces and to delivering this vital legislation to honour Martyn’s memory and all of those affected by terrorism.”

According to the Home Office, Martyn’s Law will follow a tiered model linked to the nature of the activity that takes place at a location and its capacity – which is aimed at preventing “undue burden” on businesses.

Read more:

• Mother of Manchester Arena attack victim graduates with a degree in Counter Terrorism
• Campaigner and mother of Manchester Arena attack victim presented with OBE
• Nearly half of the Manchester Arena attack injury compensation claims have been rejected

Martyn’s Law will extend to and apply across the whole of the UK.

The government says it will publish draft legislation in early Spring 2023 to ensure the law “stands the test of time”.

Featured Image – Family Handout / gov.uk