Martyn’s Law to ensure stronger protections against terrorism in public places

The UK’s resilience to terrorism is to be stepped up, as the Government announces details for the Protect Duty, now to be known as ‘Martyn’s Law’ in tribute to Martyn Hett, who was killed alongside 21 others in the Manchester Arena terrorist attack in 2017.

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.   

The threat picture is complex and ever-evolving Recent attacks demonstrate that terrorists may choose to target a broad range of locations. Martyn’s Law will ensure that security preparedness is delivered consistently across the UK, ensuring better protection of the public.

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.” 

The plans have been developed following public consultation and extensive engagement across industry, charities, local authorities, security experts and with survivors. 70% of the thousands who responded to the consultation agreed that those responsible for publicly accessible locations should take measures to protect the public from potential attacks. 

Martyn’s Law will follow a tiered model linked to activity that takes place at a location and its capacity aimed to prevent undue burden on businesses

• A standard tier will apply to locations with a maximum capacity of over 100which can undertake low-cost, simple yet effective activities to improve preparedness. This will include training, information sharing and completion of a preparedness plan to embed practices, such as locking doors to delay attackers progress or knowledge on lifesaving treatments that can be administered by staff whilst awaiting emergency services.
• An enhanced tier will focus on high-capacity locations in recognition of the potential consequences of a successful attack. Locations with a capacity of over 800 people at any time, will additionally be required to undertake a risk assessment to inform the development and implementation of a thorough security plan. Subsequent measures could include developing a vigilance and security culture, implementation of physical measures like CCTV or new systems and processes to enable better consideration of security.

The Government will establish an inspection and enforcement regime, promoting compliance and positive cultural change and issuing credible and fair sanctions for serious breaches.

Dedicated statutory guidance and bespoke support will be provided by the Government to ensure those in scope can effectively discharge their responsibilities, with even small venues also able to benefit from this and take voluntary action. Expert advice, training and guidance is also already available on the online protective security hub, ProtectUK.

Martyn’s Law will extend to and apply across the whole of the United Kingdom and the Government will publish draft legislation in the early Spring to ensure the law stands the test of time.

Notes to editors:

• The Manchester Arena Inquiry Volume One Report strongly recommended the introduction of a duty to improve the safety and security of public venues.  
• The London Bridge and Borough Market inquests also recommended the introduction of legislation which would govern the duties of public authorities regarding protective security. 
• Among the partners that the Government has worked with are Figen Murray and the Martyn’s Law campaign, who have worked tirelessly for the introduction of new legislation, following the tragic death of Figen Murray’s son Martyn Hett, alongside 21 others, at the Manchester Arena in 2017. 
• The 18-week Protect Duty consultation closed on 2nd July 2021 and received a total of 2,755 responses from a wide range of participants from across the UK and a variety of sectors. We have carefully considered these views and ensured to reflect their feedback in the creation of this draft Bill.
• ProtectUK has been developed as the new online protective security hub, offering advice and guidance from trusted experts in policing and Counter Terrorism security. It includes advice and materials from the Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure (CPNI). Along with leading guidance, the platform offers learning and training options, as well as webinars with guest speakers from across the security industry and, forums for open discussion. The platform is available to industry and the public and will be updated regularly with added information and increased functionality.
• The police, security services, and other partners including CPNI continue to do all they can to combat the terror threat. Many businesses and organisations already do excellent work to improve their security and preparedness – however the absence of legislative requirements means there is no consistency of outcomes or clear accountability. Government wants to redress this position.
• Following the Protect Duty consultation responses, the Government recognises the need for a proportionate approach with regards to places of worship. Regardless of their capacity, nearly all places of worship will be placed within the standard tier. We will keep engaging with all parties ahead of implementation.
• When reporting on terrorism, please be mindful of the experiences of victims and their families. Please include the following support information in reporting: Support is available for anyone who has been affected by terror attacks. Visit: victimsofterrorism.campaign.gov.uk or call Victim Support’s free, 24 hours support line on 0808 168 9111.