Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer tonight writes exclusively for the Manchester Evening News on Martyn's Law - new legislation named in memory of a victim of the Manchester Arena bombing atrocity.
Martyn Hett was just 29 - one of 22 innocent people who lost their lives on one of Manchester's darkest nights.
His mother, Figen Murray, was determined to bring about change to keep the public safer over the ever-present threat of terrorism.
Her long campaign for Martyn's Law - now The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 - will compel venues of differing sizes to take preventative action.
Sir Keir says tonight that people will be safer because of the new law.
The Prime Minister praises Figen's courage and determination - and her selflessness. The legislation, he adds, means Martyn's name will live forever.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, writes...
Today marks a landmark moment for our national security as this government passes new legislation that will keep people safe in public venues. The security and safety of our citizens is the first duty of any government. And security is the bedrock of my plan to change the country.
We know how important this is, and the devastating consequences of terrorist attacks like the Manchester Arena bombing eight years ago that killed 22 people. Martyn Hett was one of them. Martyn was just 29. He left behind a family who loved him – and who were determined to fight to make sure such a tragedy could never happen again. Today, that justice is finally done, as Martyn’s Law gained Royal Assent and becomes law.
The Manchester Arena bombing was the beginning of a long journey for Martyn’s mother, Figen Murray. For years, with the support of the Manchester Evening News, she has been campaigning to close security loopholes.
On the seventh anniversary of her son’s death, she finished a 200 mile walk to Downing Street, where she delivered a letter calling for tighter security at public venues, to make sure that no other family would have to go through what she did.
I met Figen that day, in Westminster. I looked her in the eye and promised her that if Labour ever got into government, we would make Martyn’s Law a reality as soon as possible. In this paper, Figen has expressed her hope that this law would be passed before the eighth anniversary of Martyn’s death.
Today, I’m proud that we have kept that promise and made that happen. People will be safer. They’ll be able to enjoy the concerts and events they love, knowing that venues have to take the action required to strengthen security.
This new legislation will require public premises and events to be better prepared and have plans to keep people safe. This will ensure staff are able to take action to reduce harm and save lives in the event of an attack. Larger premises and events of 800 or more people will be required to take further steps. That could include CCTV, bag checks or vehicle searches as appropriate.
This new law is a testament to the courage and determination of Figen Murray. Whenever we meet, I am absolutely humbled by her response to such a horrific event. Such selflessness and strength in the face of tragedy deserves our respect as a nation, and I’m immensely grateful for her example.
This legislation means that Martyn’s name will live forever, in the events and concerts that people across the country will enjoy safely. It feels like a fitting tribute, not just to Martyn, but to all those who lost their lives, and the proud and resilient spirit of Manchester.
When terror and cruelty threaten our lives and the things we love, our response will always be to stand tall, protect one another, and keep living.
The tragedy of the Manchester Arena bombing will never be forgotten. This legislation will mean that when a group of friends go to a concert, they can be excited to see their favourite singer. When someone’s daughter goes to an event, their parents can breathe easily, knowing this government is keeping them safe.
That is what I promised Martyn’s mother. And that is what this government is delivering.
Story Saved
You can find this story in My Bookmarks.Or by navigating to the user icon in the top right.
