New ‘Martyn’s Law’ legislation, which aims to protect concertgoers from terror attacks at UK music venues, was presented in Parliament this week.
Per the official Government website, The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill – also known as Martyn’s Law – will increase preparedness for, and protection from, terrorist attacks at public venues.
It received its first reading in Parliament on Thursday (September 12), following five years of campaigning from Martyn Hett’s mother, Figen Murray. Hett was one of the 22 victims of the Manchester Arena bombing outside an Ariana Grande concert in 2017.
NTIA ANNOUNCEMENT
Martyn’s Law will be officially introduced in its first reading in Parliament TODAY! While this is a major step forward, there’s still a long way to go to ensure its full implementation.
Stay tuned for updates as we continue to push for progress! #MartynsLaw… pic.twitter.com/m9Eutf5j1R
— Night Time Industries Association (@wearethentia) September 12, 2024
At the time, then Prime Minister Theresa May confirmed that it was being treated as a terrorist incident, making it the deadliest attack as such on UK soil since 52 people were killed in the 7/7 suicide bombings in July 2005.
The new legislation now proposes that UK venues with a capacity of 200 or more will face fines of up to £10,000 if they fail to comply with terrorism prevention measures.
“Today means we are one step closer to making public spaces safer for everyone,” Murray said. “It is also hugely important for my family that Martyn’s Law will be on the statute book ahead of the next anniversary of Martyn’s death.”
Under Martyn’s Law, those running premises and public events now must enhance public safety by taking government-outlined measures, which vary based on the size of the venue and the nature of the activity.
Venues with a capacity between 200 and 799 people will be required to implement measures including training staff to lock doors, close shutters and identify safe escape routes.
As part of a tiered system, venues with a capacity of more than 800 people are part of an enhanced group that which requires them to implement additional security precautions, like CCTV and dedicated staff. If these venues don’t, they could face non-compliance fees reaching £18 million.
Hett’s mother Murray has long led the campaign for tougher security regulations to be put in place for music venues, and was praised by Michael Kill, CEO of the Night Time Industries Association, for her “unwavering dedication”.
Earlier this year, she ended her 200-mile walk to Downing Street after demanding that the UK introduced stronger protections against terrorism in public places.