Six-week consultation on Martyn’s Law

A government consultation has opened on new laws aimed at ensuring premises are better prepared for, and protected from terrorist attacks.

Martyn’s Law will require premises to fulfil necessary but proportionate steps, according to their capacity, to help keep the public safe. It is named in tribute to Martyn Hett who was killed alongside 21 others in the Manchester Arena attack in 2017.

The consultation is open to the public until 18 March. A link to the consultation can be found on the government website here: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/martyns-law-standard-tier-consultation

If you would like to have input in ensuring the proposals are balanced and proportionate, you can have your say via the survey provided on the link above.

What are the proposed changes to law?

It is still proposed that there will be a standard tier for premises with a capacity between 100 – 799 and an enhanced tier for premises with a capacity over 800.

The law will not just apply to licensed premises, it also applies to shops, theatres, concert halls, gyms, churches, schools etc.

It is suggested in the new consultation that the revised obligations are designed to be low-to-no financial cost and low burden to put in place whilst still delivering outcomes that could save lives.

It is proposed there would be no requirement to complete a specified form for standard tier premises and no requirement that people working at the premises are given specific training, however, premises will need to have in place measures that could be expected to reduce the risk of physical harm to individuals at the premises in the event of an attack and employees will need to be sufficiently instructed or trained to carry them out effectively.

Whilst a specified form is no longer required, there will still need to be plans in place tailored for each individual premises clarifying how the premises will reduce harm to the public and staff in the event of an attack, including procedures for evacuation; invacuation; lockdown and communication.

Those responsible for premises will still need to notify the regulator that they are responsible for premises within the scope of the proposed legislation and to ensure there are in place procedural measures that could be expected to reduce the risk of harm in the event of an attack.

Please note that this information is for general guidance only and should not substitute professional legal advice. If you have specific concerns, we recommend consulting one of our legal experts.