Martyn's Law - Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill
What is Martyn's Law?
Martyn's Law is proposed legislation, more formally known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill. It has previously been known as the Protect Duty. Through Martyn’s Law, premises will be better prepared and ready to respond in the event of a terrorist attack.
The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill will make sure public premises and events are better prepared for and protected from terrorist attacks; requiring them to fulfil necessary but proportionate steps according to their capacity size to mitigate the impact of a terrorist attack and reduce harm.
Background to Martyn's Law
Martyn's Law is named in tribute to Martyn Hett, who was killed alongside twenty-one others in the Manchester Arena terrorist attack after an Ariana Grande concert in 2017. Figen Murray, Martyn's mother, and the Martyn’s Law campaign team have tirelessly campaigned for the introduction of new legislation. In November 2023, King Charles III announced it would form part of the Government's legislative programme for the coming Parliamentary year.
What premises are in scope?
To be in scope, premises and events must be accessible to the public, they must be used for a purpose listed in the Bill (e.g. entertainment and leisure, retail, food and drink) and have a capacity of 200 or more individuals. Premises may be a building or outdoor locations which have by express permission.
Businesses and events will be divided into two tiers based on capacity size. The Standard Tier includes premises with a capacity between 200-799. The Enhanced Tier includes premises and events with a capacity over 800 people.
What does Martyn's Law mean for my premises?
Legislatively, Martyn's Law is not currently in place. The Bill was introduced to Parliament on 12 September 2024 and is currently undergoing Parliamentary scrutiny. It is due its second reading on 14 October 2024.
Whilst Martyn's Law isn't it place yet, it does not mean premises accessible to the public should do nothing while waiting for this Bill to become law. To do what is right and just for your visitors and staff, risk holders should undertake activities to understand their risk from terrorism, identify what the security vulnerabilities are and what can be implemented to reduce or mitigate those vulnerabilities.
How will this law be enforced?
Martyn’s Law will extend to and apply across the whole of the United Kingdom. The Regulator, which is to be the Security Industry Authority (SIA), will monitor compliance and advise the premises within scope of the law.
The Government will establish an inspection and enforcement regime, promoting compliance and positive cultural change and issuing credible and fair sanctions for serious breaches. The Regulator will have the tools to address non-compliance, including investigatory powers and monetary sanctions.
