NEWS STORY- A proportionate approach to Martyn's Law regulation

A Proportionate Approach to Martyn’s Law Regulation

Laura Gibb, the SIA's Executive Director for Martyn's Law, gives her thoughts after 10 weeks in the role.

The UK government is preparing to introduce Martyn’s Law (the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025), which will require organisations responsible for certain public venues and events to improve their preparedness for potential terrorist attacks.

The Security Industry Authority (SIA) will act as the regulator and is currently working to develop the systems, guidance, and teams needed to enforce the law. However, the legislation has not yet come into force, and organisations are not currently required to comply.

There is a minimum two-year implementation period after Royal Assent in April 2025, meaning enforcement is expected around 2027. This period allows the government to finalise statutory guidance and gives organisations time to understand their responsibilities and prepare.

The approach to regulation is intended to be proportionate and practical, meaning the security measures required will depend on factors such as the size and nature of the venue. The aim is to ensure organisations take reasonable steps to reduce terrorism risks and improve emergency preparedness, without placing unnecessary burdens on smaller premises.

In short: Martyn’s Law will strengthen safety at public venues, but the government is taking a gradual, proportionate approach to regulation while organisations prepare for the new requirements.

Read the full news story here