Martyn’s Law: An Update

What is Martyn’s Law?

Martyn’s Law is named after Martyn Hett, a victim of the Manchester Arena bombing in 2017, and is a draft legislation which has now undergone scrutiny by the UK Home Affairs Select Committee. It aims to enhance security measures and preparedness in public venues, promoting a safer environment for all.
In December 2022 the Government announced that Martyn’s Law will introduce a tiered model for specific locations based on their capacity and the activities conducted, ensuring that businesses are not burdened unnecessarily. The legislation’s primary objective is to ensure that venues are well-prepared and capable of responding to potential (terrorist) attacks.

What Feedback Have the Committee Given?

The Select Committee have examined the draft legislation and have come back with a few concerns. The draft bill was centered around a two-tier classification for event venues: the Standard Tier for public premises with a capacity of 100 or more people, and the Enhanced Tier for public premises and events with a capacity of 800 or more people. MP’s are concerned that based on these tiers, the current draft bill would be hard to enforce consistently. They are also concerned on the financial burden and drain of resources on smaller businesses and that while the legislation may reduce the aftereffects of a terrorist attack it will do little to prevent them. Overall, the Committee feels the draft bill’s aims, while well-intentioned, are unclear and “…would not have made a difference to the vast majority of the terrorist attacks that have happened in the UK in recent years.”

What Happens Next?

The Committee recommended the bill be introduced in stages, starting with the larger ‘Enhanced Tier’ venues and for large scale outdoor events such as festivals, to be included. In addition, lifesaving medical training should also be made compulsory at these venues and events. So for now, the bill will need to be re-examined and redrafted before further examination – what is certain is that it will still be a while before Martyn’s Law becomes actual law.