Martyn’s Law gains Royal Assent

The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, known as ‘Martyn’s Law’, has this week received Royal Assent and become law.

The legislation, which was named in tribute to Martyn Hett who was killed in the Manchester Arena attack in 2017, will require public premises where 200 or more individuals may be present, to have plans in place to keep people safe in the event of an attack.

Under the legislation, larger premises and events where 800 or more people will be present will also 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”.

The Home Office revealed that the Security Industry Authority (SIA) will provide the regulatory functions set out in the Act.

“This includes investigating suspected non-compliance and, where appropriate, taking enforcement action”, it added.

The Bill had its First Reading in the House of Commons on 12 September 2024, with its Second Reading on 14 October 2024. It will impact some 178,900 venues.

The Home Office said the Act delivers a “manifesto commitment to strengthen the security of public events and venues” and delivers on the Prime Minister’s “personal promise” to Martyn’s mother, Figen Murray, who has been campaigning for the legislation in her son’s memory.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “Today is a landmark moment for our security as my government delivers on its promise to introduce Martyn’s Law and better protect the public from terrorism.

“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."

He added that Martyn’s Law would "ensure everyone can enjoy public events more safely and ensure venues across the country have clear, practical measures in place to protect people".

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said: “Martyn’s Law will significantly strengthen public safety across our country, I’d like to thank Figen Murray for her tireless work to make this law a reality.

She added that the new law “delivers upon the lessons from the Manchester Arena Inquiry to keep people safe”.

Lottie Winson