Live venues may get airport-level security under anti-terror laws
AIRPORT-STYLE security and bespoke training to teach staff what to do in the event of a terrorist attack could be introduced at all major public venues in a bid to keep people safe, the Government has announced.
Under proposed laws being unveiled today, the owners and operators of public spaces including sports arenas and concert settings could lose their licences if they fail to put appropriate measures in place to protect visitors.
The legislation is nicknamed Martyn’s Law in honour of Martyn Hett, 29, one of the 22 people killed in the Manchester Arena suicide attack in 2017.
‘We agree on the importance of venues and public spaces having effective and proportionate security’
His mother, Figen Murray, has campaigned for stronger anti-terror security measures in public spaces.
The proposals will place a legal requirement on businesses to have a plan in place in the event of an attack, rather than leaving it to “have-a-go heroes” to deal with a situation when it unfolds.
While staff will not be expected to tackle terrorists themselves, they will need to be aware of emergency evacuation plans.
There will also be an emphasis on tightening security measures at large venues that might be targeted.
Ms Murray previously said: “We shouldn’t have to rely on passing heroes. All venues should have basic security plans to keep people safe.”
The measures will vary depending on the size and nature of the venues, but could include compulsory bag searches and even airport-style metal detectors. The Government will launch a full consultation on the laws in the spring to ensure businesses are able to cope with the requirements.
Bosses who fail to take reasonable steps to prepare for and protect the public from a terrorist attack are being warned to expect fines or even the removal of their licences.
In the attack on Fishmongers’ Hall in London in November, Usman Khan, a knife-wielding terrorist, was tackled by several members of the public initially before armed police arrived on the scene and shot him dead.
James Brokenshire, the security minister, said: “Our first priority is keeping the public safe and preventing more families from suffering the heartbreak of losing a loved one.
“The devastating attacks in 2017, and more recently at Fishmongers’ Hall and Streatham, are stark reminders of the current threat we face.”
He added: “We are in complete agreement with campaigners such as Figen Murray on the importance of venues and public spaces having effective and proportionate protective security and preparedness measures to keep people safe.
“Of course, it is important that this new law is proportionate. This public consultation will ensure we put in place a law that will help protect the public while not putting undue pressure on businesses.”
Andy Burnham, the mayor of Manchester, has already backed calls for mandatory security checks at largescale public venues, although there has been concern that the extra safeguards could place a financial burden on businesses.
The public consultation will seek views from a broad range of organisations including businesses, public authorities, the security industry and campaign groups to ensure the proposals remain proportionate and workable.