New legislation to make venues protect the public in the event of a terror attack, named in memory of a victim of the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing, has become law in the UK today.
Martyn’s Law is named after Martyn Hett, who was killed alongside 21 others in the attack at an Ariana Grande concert in May 2017.
The law received Royal Assent today after a six-year campaign led by Martyn’s mother, Figen Murray.
She said: “Whilst nothing can bring Martyn back, this much-needed law will secure his legacy and help to prevent more families enduring the pain and loss that mine alongside 21 others have experienced since the Manchester Arena terror attack.”
The public inquiry into the bombing found “serious shortcomings” in the security provision from the venue, contractors and the British Transport Police on the night of the attack.
Inquiry chair John Saunders blamed “failings and mistakes” for “missed opportunities” to lessen the death toll caused by bomber Salman Abedi.
Martyn’s Law, officially known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill, requires public venues to be better prepared for any attack and help keep people safe.
Under the law, venues with a capacity of between 200 and 799 will have to take measures such as training staff to lock doors or close shutters and identify a route to safety.
Venues with a capacity of 800 or more will be required to make changes such as installing CCTV systems or hiring security staff.
The campaign for Martyn’s Law was started by Ms Murray in 2019 and saw her complete a 200-mile walk to Downing Street last year in a final push for the legislation.
She was back at Downing Street today to meet Sir Kier Starmer, who had personally vowed to quickly put Martyn’s Law on the statute books.
She said: “I’m grateful to the Prime Minister for keeping his promise.”
Read more from Sky News:
UK almost certain to host 2035 Women’s World Cup
Two men arrested over alleged Hezbollah links
New photos show moment of North Sea crash
Follow our channel and never miss an update
The campaign was also supported by Brendon Cox, the husband of the murdered MP Jo Cox and the co-founder of Survivors Against Terror.
He said: “You should never doubt what the courage, bravery and passion of a mother can achieve. This was never a quest for sympathy, it was a desire for change to make us all safer. Today Figen has achieved that, and we all owe her a debt of thanks.”
The inquiry into the attack found that, despite the UK terror alert being “severe” at the time, those involved in securing the venue had failed to take the risk seriously.
Ultimate responsibility lay with Abedi and his brother Hashem, who was jailed for life for his role in the attack.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
Be the first to get Breaking News
Install the Sky News app for free
The government says businesses will be given time and support to implement the new requirements and allow for a new regulator to be established.
