The UK government is now working on new legislation, which was introduced by Figen Murray OBE, the mother of one of the 22 people killed in the 2017 Manchester Arena terrorist attack, and is intended to revolutionise the way the events sector looks at safety and security.
The Protect Duty law, as detailed in a new study by ICC Wales, is the direct outcome of Figen Murray OBE’s hard advocacy. Martyn Hett’s mother, Figen, was killed in the 2017 Manchester Arena terrorist attack. The new law, dubbed Martyn’s Law, would formalise the responsibilities and measures that venues and event organisers in the United Kingdom must take to reduce the danger of a terrorist attack.
With the new law affecting public areas and venues as well as event organisers, South Wales conference venue ICC Wales has developed a paper analysing the duties of the events sector.
The venue polled conference organisers to determine the current degree of understanding of Protect Duty in the events sector. Protect Duty and the forthcoming law were unknown to 77 percent of respondents. More than half of respondents (56%) indicated they wanted to see a more visible security presence, but this had to be balanced with the guest experience.
In her foreword to the report, Figen Murray OBE, commented, “I am truly impressed with the detailed information contained in [the report] and am delighted that the document has been produced well ahead of the legislation coming into effect. It is heart-warming to see that venues up and down the country, the hospitality industry and the security sector are busily preparing for the Protect Duty.”
Ian Edwards, CEO, ICC Wales, said, “From the results of our survey, it is apparent that there is currently a lack of knowledge about the Protect Duty in the events industry. We wanted to develop a detailed document which would provide a starting point for education and awareness on this important matter, which venues and event planners can consult as they implement and update their security strategies in line with this proposed legislation. I would like to thank our contributors for their time and their invaluable knowledge and expertise, which has allowed us to create this report.”
ICC Wales has already undertaken a vulnerability assessment, and once legislation has been formalised, will review and implement the recommendations to ensure that their visitors remain safe and secure.
