25 Jul InfoBLOG: Update on Martyn’s Law.
WHAT IS MARTYN’S LAW?
Martyn’s Law is the colloquial name used for The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill.
It is referred to as ‘Martyn’s Law’ in tribute to Martyn Hett, who was tragically killed alongside 21 others in the Manchester Arena terrorist attack in 2017.
Martyn’s Law intends to improve the safety and security of public venues and keep the British Public safe from terrorism.
The Bill aims to make sure public premises and events are better prepared for, and protected from terrorist attacks; and better prepared and ready to respond in the event of a terrorist attack.
WHO MIGHT THIS AFFECT?
Premises used for entertainment, leisure, retail, food, and drink.
Have a capacity of 100 or more individuals.
May be a building or an outdoor location with a readily identifiable physical boundary.
Temporary events / Festivals with a capacity of 800 or more individuals.
HOW WILL MARTYN’S LAW WORK?
Establishing a Tiered Model, linked to the activity and the event capacity.
Enhanced Tier: would apply to premises and events with a capacity of more than 800 individuals.
Standard Tier: would apply to premises and venues with a capacity between 100 – 799
WHO WILL HOLD THE RESPONSIBILITY?
The Bill places the responsibility on the person who has control of the premises (the operator or occupier).
Dedicated guidance and support will be provided to the ‘responsible person’, to ensure they have the required information on what to do, and on how best to do it.
WHAT DOES MARTYN’S LAW MEAN FOR EVENT MEDICINE PROVIDERS?
This may include, a renewed focus on preparedness plans, improved access to training, improved risk assessments, a requirement for closer working practices with non-medical event industry professionals, and suggested stress testing of existing emergency protocols.
WHAT IS THE FUTURE FOR MARTYN’S LAW?
It is reported that Sir Keir Starmer has told the House of Commons “we must make sure Martyn’s Law becomes a reality as soon as possible”, although no specific date for any new legislation has yet to be decided.
Although it has also been reported that some MPs have stated, “we are concerned to learn that the draft Bill would not have made a difference to the vast majority of terrorist attacks that have happened in the UK in recent years”, and “money and time required under the bill could place smaller businesses and voluntary organisations at risk”, and “pre-legislative scrutiny will ensure we create a strong bill that delivers on the aim, while being proportionate”.
The draft Bill remains under scrutiny by MPs on the Home Affairs Select Committee.
NEMO’s OPINION: Statutory legislation is welcome if it improves the safety and security of the public attending sports stadiums, music concerts and outdoor festivals. Preparedness planning, staff training & education, integrated working with event industry colleagues, and ‘operational practice’ governance, are all key aspects of medical provision at events, that need to be considered & scrutinised and included in any final Bill that is put to Parliament.