Martyn’s Law: Anti-terror security rules to be introduced after years of delay

New legislation in memory of Manchester Arena bombing victim Martyn Hett will be introduced to ensure stronger protections against terrorism in public places, the government has said.

Mr Hett, 29, was one of 22 people killed during the attack at the end of an Ariana Grande concert on 22 May, 2017.

The new rules, which Mr Hett’s mother Figen Murray has long campaigned for, will cover all of the UK and require venues and local authorities to have preventative action plans against terror attacks, the government said.

The measures were announced several years ago but have been delayed in being introduced.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said he is committed to working with Mrs Murray to improve security measures at public venues, with the government planning to publish draft legislation in early spring.

Speaking days after her son would have celebrated his 35th birthday, Mrs Murray said: “The government taking this seriously and promising to act is the best birthday present I could have asked for on Martyn’s birthday.

“While nothing can bring Martyn back, this news means that others like him will be better protected.

“Common-sense security in public venues – big or small – could mean fewer suffer what myself and the families of Manchester have had to endure.

“Now we need urgent action to get this into place. I hope that this law will now be introduced in the current session of parliament so we can get this done as soon as possible.”

Praising Mrs Murray’s campaign, Mr 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.”

Martyn’s Law will follow a tiered model linked to the type of activity taking place and the size of the expected audience, and will seek to improve how prepared a venue is without putting an undue burden on business.

A standard tier will apply to locations with a maximum capacity of more than 100 people. Venues will need to undertake low-cost effective measures such as training, information sharing, and completion of a preparedness plan.

An enhanced tier will focus on high-capacity locations. Those that can hold 800 or more will be required to undertake an additional risk assessment that will inform the development and implementation of a thorough security plan.

The government will also establish an inspection and enforcement regime, issuing sanctions for breaches, and will provide statutory guidance and bespoke support.