Martyn's Law published as draft legislation

The government has published draft legislation on Martyn's Law, which will require venues to take steps to improve public safety and offer protection from terrorist attacks.

The draft bill will receive pre-legislative scrutiny by the Home Affairs Select Committee.

The Protect Duty, now know as Martyn's Law, pays tribute to Martyn Hett, who was killed alongside 21 others in the Manchester Arena terrorist attack in 2017.

Details of Martyn's Law were first released by the government last December.

It involves a tiered system of legislation that ranks public premises as standard (maximum capacity of 100 or more) or enhanced (maximum capacity of 800 or more).

Under the new law, the draft Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill will outline security criteria for a range of public venues across the United Kingdom, including the provision of terrorism protection training and the appointment of a designated senior officer for ‘enhanced' spaces.

An inspection and enforcement scheme will be introduced to oversee the requirements for each tier.

Sanctions and penalties will be issued to premises that do not comply with the law.

Tom Tugendhat, security minister, said: "This is a significant step forward for Martyn's Law and our ability to further protect the public. I welcome the committee's scrutiny to ensure that this legislation is proportionate while enhancing our national security."

Figen Murray, mother of Martyn Hett and campaigner of Martyn's Law, added: "Martyn's Law won't stop all terror attacks, but it will make crowded places better protected and prepared, and make the terrorists' job that bit harder. Almost six years after the Manchester Arena attack it's now critical this bill is passed into law as quickly as possible and in the strongest form possible."

The government has committed to working closely with businesses to ensure the legislation is proportionate and effective.

It comes after former security minister James Brokenshire announced plans to introduce a law which will require owners and operators of public spaces and venues to put in place measures to keep the public safe from a terrorist attack in February 2020.