Government announces details for new laws for venues to ensure public safety

The government has revealed new details of how large venues will be required to ensure public safety following the Manchester Arena terror attack in 2017.

The Protect Duty has been dubbed ‘Martyn’s Law’ in tribute to Martyn Hett, originally from Stockport, who was among the 22 killed while attending an Ariana Grande concert at Mancheter Arena.

Working closely with security partners, business and victims’ groups, including Figen Murray and the Martyn’s Law Campaign Team, and Survivors Against Terror, the new duty will require venues to take steps to improve public safety, with measures dependent on the size of the venue and the activity taking place.

A tiered model will see venues with capacity of at least 100 required to undertake activities to ensure preparedness in the event of terrorism, such as training, and completing are plan in the unlikely event of an attack. An enhanced tier for venues with a capacity of over 800 will also require additional measures, including the implementation of a thorough security plan.

Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, said:

“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.

“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.”

Figen Murray, mother of Martyn Hett said:

“Martyn’s Law isn’t going to stop terrorism, 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.

“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.”

Home Secretary, Suella Braverman said:

“Protecting the public from danger is a key responsibility of any government. The terrorist threat we face is diverse and continually evolving, which is why this legislation is so important.

“I would like to thank Figen Murray and the Martyn’s Law campaign for their support in the development of this vital reform.

“Their tireless efforts have helped inform our approach and the heart-breaking stories from survivors and their families are a constant reminder as to why we must deliver on this commitment to work together to improve public security.”