Manchester Arena victim’s mother says “world is watching” over Martyn’s Law delay
Pressure grows to implement Martyn’s Law
Figen Murray, whose son Martyn Hett was killed in the Manchester Arena bombing, says “the world is watching” as a new security law remains unimplemented a year after receiving Royal Assent.
Martyn’s Law, designed to improve protection against terror attacks at public venues, is not yet in force due to an implementation period set by the government.
What is Martyn’s Law?
The legislation, formally known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act, will require venues with a capacity of more than 200 people to have plans in place in the event of a terrorist attack.
Larger venues will need to introduce further measures, including CCTV, bag searches and vehicle checks where appropriate.
Why has it not been implemented?
Although the law received Royal Assent in April last year, the government introduced a minimum two-year implementation period.
The Home Office says this will allow organisations time to prepare and ensure the law is introduced effectively.
Campaign and concerns
The campaign for Martyn’s Law began in 2019, with Ms Murray pushing for stronger security at public venues following her son’s death. In 2024, she completed a 200-mile walk from Manchester to Downing Street as a “final push” to get the legislation over the line.
She has since warned she could take further action if there are signs of delay, saying she would “do something outrageous” again if necessary to ensure the law is implemented.
Speaking to us, she said it was important that people understand what the law will mean.
“I think it was really important for the public to understand the tiers and that there will be a campaign informing them,” she said.
While she acknowledged the need to “get it right”, she has warned against further delays and said she would take action if necessary.
Changes already under way
Ms Murray said she is already seeing improvements in security at venues, even before the law becomes mandatory.
She added that increased awareness of the legislation is prompting venues to begin preparing early.