A new ‘Protect Duty’ aimed at protecting against terrorism in public places is to be introduced across the UK.
The Government has said it will bring forward new legislation this spring requiring public venues to take steps to improve public safety, with measures dependent on the size of the venue and the activity taking place.
The duty will be known as ‘Martyn’s Law’ in tribute to Martyn Hett, who was killed alongside 21 others in the Manchester Arena terrorist attack in 2017. His mother, Figen Murray, campaigned for the change.
Cllr Nesil Caliskan, Chair of the LGA’s Safer and Stronger Communities Board, said: “Councils working with their partners already carry out considerable work to protect and keep communities safe.
“The Government must now ensure that funding is made available to respond to the significant resource and capacity requirements needed to successfully implement Martyn’s Law.
“There should also be sufficient lead-in time, and guidance provided ahead of the legislation coming into force, so that councils and others understand their new obligations and can prepare accordingly.
“In addition, government should provide clarity around how the new duty will be enforced.
“It is vital that measures to increase security continue to sit alongside investment in prevention programmes that aim to stop people carrying out attacks, tackle extremism, and build community cohesion and resilience.”