Martyn's Law Receives Royal Assent, Enhancing Security at Public Venues in the UK
New legislation mandates safety measures at venues hosting large crowds following tragic Manchester Arena bombing.
The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, commonly referred to as Martyn’s Law, has been enacted after receiving royal assent on Thursday, marking a significant development in public safety regulations within the United Kingdom.
The law aims to provide greater protection against potential terrorist attacks at venues expecting a crowd of 200 or more individuals.
Under this legislation, venues that can accommodate 800 or more people will be required to implement specific measures designed to reduce vulnerability to attacks.
Such measures may include the installation of CCTV, conducting bag searches, or performing vehicle checks prior to events.
The initiative was largely driven by advocacy from Figen Murray, who is the mother of Martyn Hett, one of the victims of the Manchester Arena bombing in May 2017, which claimed the lives of 22 people.
In recognition of her efforts, Murray met with opposition leader Sir Keir Starmer at Downing Street, where Prime Minister Rishi Sunak acknowledged her contributions and expressed gratitude for her tireless campaigning.
Murray has been instrumental in promoting the law since the tragic loss of her son, completing a 200-mile walk from Manchester Arena to Downing Street to highlight the need for such reforms.
The legislative proposal was introduced in Parliament in September 2022.
In his remarks, Prime Minister Sunak characterized the passage of Martyn’s Law as a landmark moment for national security, emphasizing the government's commitment to improving safety measures at public events and venues.
Sunak stated, “Security is the foundation of our plan for change and the first duty of any Government,” underscoring the proactive steps taken to ensure public safety.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper also highlighted the significance of Martyn’s Law in enhancing public safety and expressed gratitude to Murray for her relentless advocacy.
She noted that the law acts on the lessons drawn from the Manchester Arena Inquiry, aimed at preventing similar tragedies in the future.
The Security Industry Authority (SIA) has been designated as the regulatory body for implementing this legislation.
The law is set to take effect within two years, providing the SIA with time to establish its regulatory functions and allowing responsible parties adequate time to familiarize themselves with the new obligations outlined in the Act.
The law aims to provide greater protection against potential terrorist attacks at venues expecting a crowd of 200 or more individuals.
Under this legislation, venues that can accommodate 800 or more people will be required to implement specific measures designed to reduce vulnerability to attacks.
Such measures may include the installation of CCTV, conducting bag searches, or performing vehicle checks prior to events.
The initiative was largely driven by advocacy from Figen Murray, who is the mother of Martyn Hett, one of the victims of the Manchester Arena bombing in May 2017, which claimed the lives of 22 people.
In recognition of her efforts, Murray met with opposition leader Sir Keir Starmer at Downing Street, where Prime Minister Rishi Sunak acknowledged her contributions and expressed gratitude for her tireless campaigning.
Murray has been instrumental in promoting the law since the tragic loss of her son, completing a 200-mile walk from Manchester Arena to Downing Street to highlight the need for such reforms.
The legislative proposal was introduced in Parliament in September 2022.
In his remarks, Prime Minister Sunak characterized the passage of Martyn’s Law as a landmark moment for national security, emphasizing the government's commitment to improving safety measures at public events and venues.
Sunak stated, “Security is the foundation of our plan for change and the first duty of any Government,” underscoring the proactive steps taken to ensure public safety.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper also highlighted the significance of Martyn’s Law in enhancing public safety and expressed gratitude to Murray for her relentless advocacy.
She noted that the law acts on the lessons drawn from the Manchester Arena Inquiry, aimed at preventing similar tragedies in the future.
The Security Industry Authority (SIA) has been designated as the regulatory body for implementing this legislation.
The law is set to take effect within two years, providing the SIA with time to establish its regulatory functions and allowing responsible parties adequate time to familiarize themselves with the new obligations outlined in the Act.
