DAN JARVIS: 'I'm proud this government is the one that has delivered Martyn's Law'

Martyn’s Law is finally just that, a Law.

The legislation received Royal Assent following passage through both Houses of Parliament and became an Act. I am proud to be the Security Minister in a government that has, at long last, delivered this legislation. As we approach the eighth anniversary of the horrendous Arena attack, Martyn’s Law will finally be on the statute book and will deliver on our manifesto commitment to strengthen the security of public premises and events.

It is officially called the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, but it will be truly known as Martyn’s Law, making this a day of mixed emotion. Something momentous has been achieved, but we must all remember why this legislation is so crucial.

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Almost eight years ago, the Manchester Arena attack resulted in 22 people being killed and more than 1,000 others injured. It was one of the most awful atrocities this country has ever seen and will never be forgotten.

In the years since, I have met with some of those who were there that night, their families and friends. I have continuously been struck by their resilience and determination to affect meaningful change and improve future outcomes.

Among them is Figen Murray, the mother of Martyn Hett, who was tragically killed in the Arena attack. I’d like to pay special tribute to her and the campaign team. To have lost her son and yet to find the strength to drive forward a campaign for change to improve security for all is truly remarkable.

Figen Murray has made it her mission to ensure others do not experience the tragedy that her family, and the many others affected by such heinous acts, have had to endure.

The public rightly deserve to feel safe when visiting public premises and attending events This legislation will achieve what Figen and our manifesto committed to.

We know that many venues already have such procedures or measures in place, but this Act will ensure minimum standards of preparedness are met in venues right across our country.

Smaller premises, where between 200-799 people may be present, will have requirements centred on simple, low-cost activities to reduce the risk of harm in the event of an attack

These procedures could be as simple as having plans for locking doors, closing shutters and identifying a safe route to cover. Costs will be related to time and there are no requirements to implement physical measures.

Larger premises and events, where over 800 people may be present, will have to implement these same procedures, but in addition they will have to put in place public protection measures to reduce their vulnerability to terrorism.

This could mean installing or implementing measures in their premises and immediate vicinity, such as bag search policies, CCTV or vehicle checks.

The work doesn’t stop here, and this government will now continue to engage with businesses and organisations to ensure this legislation is fully implemented as it needs to be.

We expect an implementation period of at least 24 months to allow for the set-up of the regulator. This will also ensure there is sufficient time for those responsible for premises and events in scope of the Act to understand their new obligations, and to plan and prepare. In this time, Government will produce guidance to support those in scope.

National Security is the foundation of this government’s Plan for Change and the passing of Martyn’s Law demonstrates that nothing matters more than keeping the public safe.

Figen had previously said “it is time to get this done” . I am proud to say that this Government has done just that.