Martyn's Law laid before parliament seven years after Manchester suicide bombing

The mother of Manchester arena victim Martyn Hett has welcomed the introduction of Martyn's Law to parliament today.

The measures, introduced to Parliament as a response to the attack on the Ariane Grande concert in May 2017, aim to create tighter security at public venues, after Martyn and 21 other people were killed in a terror attack at the Manchester Arena in 2017.

This includes improving security against terror threats, providing staff with free online training provided by the government, and a requirement that all venues have a counter-terrorism plan.

Under the proposals, there will be different requirements for premises, based on the number of people they can hold.

Venues with a capacity of between 200 and 799 will be considered 'standard tier', and those with a higher capacity of 800 will be classed as an 'enhanced tier'.

Requirements at ‘standard tier’ include training staff on "simple and low cost" procedures like identifying safe exit routes and locking doors and windows.

Meanwhile, 'enhanced tier' premises will be required to undertake additional steps to reduce the vulnerability of the premises to terrorist attacks.

Figen has been campaigning for the introduction of Martyn's Law for the past five years and in May 2024, she walked 200 miles to Downing Street where she met with Sir Keir Starmer and Yvette Cooper as well as former prime minister Rishi Sunak the day the election was called.

The now Prime Minister has committed to making Martyn's Law a priority and the bill was included in the Labour government's King's Speech.

In response to today's development, Ms Murray commended the speed at which the new government has moved to help make Martyn's Law a reality.

"He said he would act quickly and he has", she said.

“Today means we are one step closer to making public spaces safer for everyone. 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.”

Figen Murray OBE gives her reaction to the latest development

Brendan Cox, co-founder of Survivors Against Terror, said: "Survivors of terror attacks aren't looking for sympathy - they are looking for change that makes it less likely that others will endure what they have.

"Today is a major breakthrough following years of campaigning led by Martyn's fearless mum Figen and backed by hundreds of other survivors of terror attacks.

"Almost eight years after the Manchester attack, it will finally close the security loopholes that put us all at risk."

Michael Kill, CEO of the Night Time Industries Association, commended Figen "for her relentless advocacy in honour of her son" but added there were "challenges" that lie ahead.Mr kill said: "Martyn’s Law aims to bolster safety measures at publicly accessible venues, a goal we wholeheartedly support.

"However, as we advance, it is crucial to address the proportionality of the proposed measures, within all settings.

"We must ensure that the balance between heightened security and practical implementation is carefully considered.

"Key concerns include the operational impact, skill set required of venue operators and the financial implications of enforcing these new safety protocols."While the objectives of Martyn’s Law are commendable, it is essential that the legislation is designed with feasibility and fairness in mind.

"We urge all stakeholders to engage in a thorough review of the bill as it progresses through the parliamentary process.

"Our goal is to ensure that the safety enhancements are both effective and manageable for all involved."

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