'Significant milestone for Martyn’s Law' as anti-terror bill finally debated more than seven years after Arena bombing

The Commons debate of the anti-terrorism bill to keep people safe from terror attacks has been hailed as a 'significant milestone' by industry leaders.

The plans, to help protect the public from potential attacks by introducing various regulations to venues, are part of the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill which is being debated for the first time in the Commons on Monday (October 14) - more than seven years after the atrocity.

The laws have been tirelessly campaigned for by Martyn's mother, Figen Murray. Figen's son, PR worker Martyn, a keen YouTuber and Coronation Street superfan, was among those murdered as 20,000 fans left the Ariana Grande concert at the arena on May 22 2017 after suicide bomber 22-year-old Salman Abedi detonated the homemade bomb.

READ MORE Martyn's Law: Anti-terror bill to be discussed by ministers in landmark Commons debate

Ministers and backbenchers will debate the main principles of the Bill in the House of Commons on Monday afternoon. It comes days after MI5 Director General Ken McCallum revealed last week there had been 43 foiled terror threats on UK venues since the arena bombing.

For many years, the Manchester Evening News backed Figen in her fight to campaign for new laws that could save others from suffering the same fate as her son. When she first began campaigning, the M.E.N urged those across the region and UK to sign her petition to the government and create a lasting legacy in her son's name.

Monday (October 14) marks the bills' second reading and the first time the law will be debated by ministers in the Commons.

Michael Kill, CEO of the Night Time Industries Association, said: “Today marks a significant milestone for Martyn’s Law as it progresses to its second reading in Parliament. This bill is not only pivotal for enhancing public safety but also represents a collective commitment from the night-time economy to ensure that our venues and public spaces are as secure as possible.

“We wholeheartedly support Martyn’s Law as a critical piece of legislation that prioritises the safety of individuals in public areas. The night-time industries have a crucial role to play in creating secure environments, and this legislation reinforces our commitment to that mission.

“We commend the government for its willingness to listen and adapt the bill’s approach to ensure proportionality and flexibility, especially concerning training requirements. This balanced perspective acknowledges the diverse landscape of our industry, accommodating both lower and higher-tier businesses while providing structured support to those at the upper end.

“While we recognise the challenges surrounding security provision and the associated costs—issues that are always at the forefront of our members’ minds—our unwavering belief is that safety must remain paramount. We are prepared to work collaboratively with all stakeholders to navigate these challenges effectively.

“As we look to the future, it is vital to understand how Martyn’s Law will interact with existing legislation governing venues. We anticipate a cohesive approach that enhances current regulations, ensuring a unified framework for security measures across the industry.”

“Today is an important day not just for the bill, but for all those who frequent and work in our vibrant public spaces. Together, we can foster a safer night-time economy, one that prioritises the well-being of everyone.”

It is not yet known when the rules could come into force, if voted through by Parliament, but Government officials anticipate it could take between one and two years for the Bill to become law and measures to be implemented.

The bill is designed to improve public safety by requiring all venues with a capacity of more than 200 to take simple steps to ensure they have a plan in place in case of an attack on their premises.

New regulations under the law could affect 155,000 smaller businesses with venue capacity for between 200 and 799 people, it is estimated, at an average anticipated cost of £330 a year. Around 24,000 larger venues, with capacity of 800 and above, could be subject to the laws and face average costs of around £5,000 a year as a result.

While the proposed laws will not apply to venues with a capacity of less than 200, business owners can choose voluntarily to adopt measures and follow guidance.