Martyn’s Law anti-terror legislation gains Royal Assent

Legislation to ensure large scale events are better prepared to respond to terrorism, dubbed ‘Martyn’s Law’ has gained Royal Assent and become law.

‘Martyn’s Law’ is named in tribute to Martyn Hett, originally from Stockport, who was tragically killed alongside 21 others in the Manchester Arena attack in May 2017, and whose mother, Figen Murray has led campaigning for strengthened security at large scale events.

The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 will require public premises where 200 or more individuals may be present, to be better prepared and have plans in place to keep people safe in the event of an attack. Larger premises and events where 800 or more people will be present will be required to take further steps to reduce their vulnerability to acts of terrorism – such as having CCTV, bag search policies or vehicle checks where appropriate.

Figen Murray, campaigner and mother of Martyn Hett, was invited to Downing Street to mark the law gaining Royal Assent. She said:

“My son Martyn Hett was murdered alongside 21 innocent victims in the Manchester Arena terror attack on 22 May 2017, and whilst nothing will bring Martyn back, I am determined to ensure nobody endures what my family has experienced.

“For the last 6 years I have campaigned to introduce measures that will improve security at public venues and how they respond to a terror attack – Martyn’s Law.

“I am grateful to the Prime Minister, the Security Minister and Lord Hanson for how quickly they’ve progressed Martyn’s Law through parliament. But this would not have happened without the tireless support of my co-campaigners Nick Aldworth, Brendan Cox, Nathan Emmerich, my husband Stuart, and my children.

“Over the implementation period it is vital that the government and Security Industry Authority provide all that is necessary for publicly accessible locations to implement Martyn’s Law.“

Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, said:

“Today is a landmark moment for our security as my government delivers on its promise to introduce Martyn’s Law and better protect the public from terrorism.

“Figen’s courage and determination in the face of such unimaginable loss is truly humbling and it is thanks to her campaigning that Martyn’s Law means her son’s legacy will live on forever.“

Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper, added:

“Martyn’s Law will significantly strengthen public safety across our country, I’d like to thank Figen Murray for her tireless work to make this law a reality.“