What You Need to Know About Martyn’s Law

The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, commonly referred to as Martyn’s Law, is now UK law after receiving Royal Assent last month.

Martyn’s Law – Key Points:

• As this is now an Act of Parliament, this new landmark legislation means the security of your colleagues and the public must be considered and take steps to protect them from harm, so it’s best to be prepared for any emergency situation!
• ‘Martyn’s Law’ is named in tribute to Martyn Hett, who was tragically killed alongside 21 others in the Manchester Arena attack in May 2017. It fulfils Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s personal promise to Martyn’s mother, Figen Murray – who has been the driving force behind campaigning for this legislation in her son’s memory – that he would introduce this law.
• The UK Government intends to allow for an implementation period of at least 24 months before the Act comes into force, meaning Martyn’s Law is unlikely to take effect before April 2027.
• This means that businesses such as restaurants and shops, as well as organisations including schools and event venues, will have the time and support needed to understand their new responsibilities and to plan and prepare appropriately for emergency situations.
• Martyn’s Law will legally require businesses, venue operators, and employers to take steps to reduce the risk of terrorist incidents – events that could occur anywhere and at any time in the UK.
• Since March 2017, Counter Terrorism Policing has assessed that there have been 15 domestic terrorist attacks in the UK. In addition, security services and law enforcement have successfully disrupted 43 late-stage plots. These facts underpin the necessity of introducing Martyn’s Law.