Martyn’s Law Becomes UK Law: New Measures to Enhance Public Safety at Venues and Events
News: Martyn’s Law Becomes UK Law: New Measures to Enhance Public Safety at Venues and Events Published: 25/05/2025
Martyn’s Law Becomes UK Law: New Measures to Enhance Public Safety at Venues and Events
The UK Government has officially enacted the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025—commonly known as Martyn’s Law—marking a significant step toward strengthening public safety at venues and events across the country. The legislation received Royal Assent on 3 April 2025, following years of advocacy by Figen Murray, whose son Martyn Hett was among the 22 victims of the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing.
What Is Martyn’s Law?
Martyn’s Law introduces a legal duty for those responsible for certain public premises and events to assess and prepare for the threat of terrorism. It aims to improve protective security and organisational preparedness, ensuring that venues are better equipped to respond to potential attacks.
Who Is Affected?
The Act applies to premises and events that meet specific criteria:
- Premises: Buildings used for activities listed in Schedule 1 of the Act (e.g., restaurants, shops) where it is reasonable to expect at least 200 individuals may be present at least occasionally.
- Events: Events held at premises accessible to the public, with measures to check entry conditions (such as ticket checks), and where it is reasonable to expect at least 800 individuals present at once.
Tiered Approach
Martyn’s Law establishes a tiered system based on the capacity of the premises or event:
- Standard Duty Premises: Premises where it is reasonable to expect between 200 and 799 individuals may be present at the same time. Responsible persons must notify the regulator and implement appropriate and reasonably practicable public protection procedures, such as evacuation or lockdown plans.
- Enhanced Duty Premises and Qualifying Events: Premises or events where it is reasonable to expect 800 or more individuals may be present at the same time. In addition to the standard requirements, responsible persons must assess the risk of terrorist attacks and implement measures to reduce vulnerability, such as monitoring the premises and documenting public protection procedures.
Implementation and Support
To enforce the new requirements, a regulator will be established as a new function of the Security Industry Authority (SIA). This body will support, advise, and guide those responsible for premises and events in meeting their obligations under the legislation.
The Government has announced an implementation period of at least 24 months before the Act comes into force. This transition period is intended to allow the SIA’s new function to be established and to ensure that those affected have sufficient time to understand their new obligations and prepare appropriately.
Background and Support
The introduction of Martyn’s Law follows extensive public consultation and engagement with industry, charities, local authorities, security experts, and survivors. Seventy percent of respondents agreed that those responsible for publicly accessible locations should take measures to protect the public from potential attacks.
The Government has paid tribute to Figen Murray for her tireless campaigning, which has been instrumental in driving the legislation forward. Home Secretary Suella Braverman stated, “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.”
Martyn’s Law represents a significant advancement in the UK’s efforts to enhance public safety and preparedness in the face of evolving terrorist threats. Further guidance will be published in due course to assist those affected in understanding and complying with the new requirements.