Martyn’s Law will deliver increased protection to people in the United Kingdom by ensuring public premises and events are better prepared in the event of a terrorist attack, writes Nicholas Dynon.
Premises and events across Britain will be better prepared to respond to attacks as landmark legislation known as Martyn’s Law gained Royal Assent and became law on 03 April.
The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 will require public premises in the UK where 200 or more individuals may be present to be better prepared and have plans in place to keep people safe in the event of an attack.
Larger premises and events where 800 or more people will be present will be required to take further steps to reduce their vulnerability to acts of terrorism – such as having CCTV, bag search policies or vehicle checks where appropriate.
Martyn’s Law is named in tribute to Martyn Hett who was tragically killed alongside 21 others in the Manchester Arena attack in May 2017.
According to the UK government, since March 2017, there have been 15 domestic terror attacks in the UK, while security services have disrupted 43 late-stage plots. Terrorists have targeted a wide range of people and places.
It is not always possible to predict where in the UK an attack might happen, or the type of premises or events that could be impacted – either directly (as the target of an attack) or indirectly (by being located near to the target of an attack).
Despite the unpredictability of attack, individuals are more likely to take action that can reduce harm and save lives if they have considered what they would do, and how, prior to a terrorist attack occurring. The Manchester Arena Inquiry and London Bridge Inquests called for the introduction of legislation and guidance to protect the public.
The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 is intended to improve protective security and organisational preparedness across the UK. It forms part of the UK government’s wider counter-terrorism strategy, CONTEST.
Culmination of years of campaigning
Martyn Hett’s mother, Figen Murray, who has been the driving force in campaigning for this legislation in her son’s memory, was invited by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer to Downing Street to mark the landmark moment.
“Figen’s courage and determination in the face of such unimaginable loss is truly humbling and it is thanks to her campaigning that Martyn’s Law means her son’s legacy will live on forever,” said Prime Minister Starmer.
“Security is the… first duty of any government. Martyn’s Law will ensure everyone can enjoy public events more safely and ensure venues across the country have clear, practical measures in place to protect people,” he said.
“My son Martyn Hett was murdered alongside 21 innocent victims in the Manchester Arena terror attack on 22 May 2017, and whilst nothing will bring Martyn back, I am determined to ensure nobody endures what my family has experienced,” said Figen Murray.
Figen Murray also paid tribe to her co-campaigners Nick Aldworth, Brendan Cox, Nathan Emmerich, and her husband and children.
“Over the implementation period it is vital that the government and Security Industry Authority provide all that is necessary for publicly accessible locations to implement Martyn’s Law,” she said.
“We will continue to work with businesses and with the government to make sure premises have the support they need to prepare for the implementation of the act, said Counter Terrorism Policing Senior National Coordinator for Protect and Prepare, Deputy Assistant Commissioner Jon Savell.
According to Mike Kill, CEO of the Night Time Industries Association, the Act comprises appropriate and proportionate steps to protect the public from the threat of terrorism.
“We appreciate the government’s recognition of the challenges businesses face and the commitment to a 24-month implementation period, allowing time for preparation and adaptation,” said Mike Kill.
“As an industry we will continue working closely with the Home Office, the SIA, and key stakeholders to provide clear guidance and support. Ensuring the safety of our night-time economy and public spaces remains our priority, and we fully support this crucial legislation.”
Giles Smith, Chief Executive of the Sports Grounds Safety Authority (SGSA), also welcomed the passing of the legislation.
“Providing a safe, welcoming environment for fans is the SGSA’s top priority and we support the objectives of Martyn’s Law,” he said.
Oversight, advice and inspection
The UK Security Industry Authority (SIA) will provide the regulatory functions set out in the Act, including investigating suspected non-compliance and, where appropriate, taking enforcement action. A core principle of the SIA will be to support, advise and guide those responsible for premises and events to meet the requirements of the legislation.
“As the new independent regulator, our role will be to educate, support, and guide those covered by the new duty into compliance,” said Michelle Russell, Chief Executive of the SIA. “This is to empower them to strengthen the protection and preparedness of premises and events across the UK and reduce the risk of harm from acts of terrorism.”
Where required they will also investigate and enforce compliance with the requirements, using a toolkit of powers and sanctions to address serious or persistent cases of non-compliance. This includes the power to issue penalties to those who fail to fulfil the requirements and to place restrictions on enhanced duty premises and qualifying events in the most serious cases.
When will the legislation come into effect?
The Act received Royal Assent on 3 April 2025 and it is expected that the implementation period will be at least 24 months.
The UK Home Office will publish statutory guidance during the 24 month implementation period. This guidance will assist those responsible to understand the requirements set out in the legislation. For more information about Martyn’s Law, visit the UK Government Factsheet.
