Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Draft Bill – Protect Duty/Martyn’s Law 30 November 2023

The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) draft Bill, Protect Duty/Martyn’s Law moved another step forward as it was included in the King Charles III first King’s speech, which sets out the Government’s proposed 2023-2024 legislative programme.

The Protect Duty/Martyn’s Law will enhance public safety by ensuring premises (of a certain size) will have a better preparedness for, and protection from, terrorist attacks.

The Government has set criteria that would see premises with a capacity of 100 to 799 people in the standard tier, and place venues with a capacity of 800-plus people in the enhanced tier.

The Government has not announced whether a new regulator will be created to carry out inspections and enforcement, promote compliance, and issue fair and credible sanctions for serious breaches.

Whilst the reading in the King’s speech does not guarantee the Protect Duty/Martyn’s Law will become legislation, it shows continued progression. A step closer to a reading in the House of Commons, where legislative scrutiny begins.