Martyn's Law: standard tier consultation launched

The Home Office has launched a consultation on the standard tier of Martyn's Law.

The consultation is aimed at organisations, businesses, local and public authorities, and individuals who own or operate publicly accessible premises or events that the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill will potentially affect.

The consultation will seek views from those responsible for smaller premises which would fall within the standard tier.

Martyn's Law will impose requirements in relation to certain premises and events to increase their preparedness for, and protection from, a terrorist attack by requiring them to take proportionate steps, depending on the size and nature of the activities that take place at the premises.

The proposed requirements would apply to those responsible for qualifying public premises and qualifying public events. They might be individuals but, in most cases, would be a business or other organisation.

The proposals set out different requirements for standard tier premises, which would have a capacity of 100-799 individuals and enhanced tier premises and qualifying public events, both of which have a capacity of 800 individuals or more.

The consultation can be filled in online and will close on 18 March 2024.

Security minister, Tom Tugendhat, said: "Simple steps save lives. Martyn’s Law will help protect the British public from terrorism, and make sure public premises are better prepared in the event of a terror attack.

"I want to make sure that our proposals are balanced and proportionate. That’s why our updated approach is easy to implement, and better tailored to individual businesses.

"I’d encourage smaller premises to share their feedback on these crucial changes. Your feedback will help ensure that Martyn’s Law stands the test of time."