Mother of Manchester Arena Attack Victim Thanks Prime Minister Following Bill’s Commons Passage

The mother of an individual killed in the Manchester Arena bombing has extended her gratitude to the Prime Minister. She acknowledged his role in providing “the weight it needs” to new legislation intended to prevent terrorist attacks at event venues. This legislation, officially named The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill and commonly referred to as Martyn’s Law, will mandate that all venues across the UK capable of holding over 200 individuals develop plans to address potential attacks on their sites. Figen Murray initiated the campaign for this law following the death of her 29-year-old son, Martyn Hett. He was among the 22 fatalities at the conclusion of an Ariana Grande concert in May 2017. Having successfully completed its third reading without a vote being called, the bill is now set to undergo examination in the House of Lords. During the bill’s third reading, Security Minister Dan Jarvis informed the Commons: “After seven years, and as Figen has said, it’s time to get this done.” He further stated: “This cross-party commitment to improve the safety and security of venues in the wake of the Manchester Arena attack must be delivered without further delay.” Prime Minister Keir Starmer commented on X, describing the development as an “important next step” in fulfilling his pledge to implement Martyn’s Law. Ms Murray responded by expressing her gratitude for him upholding his promise, adding that she was “so pleased” he had kept his word. Martin Hibbert and his daughter, Eve, sustained life-altering injuries during the explosion. Speaking to BBC Radio Manchester, he characterized the progression as “great news.” He remarked: “I’m really happy for Figen… she has campaigned tirelessly over the last five or six years. “Anything that can improve public safety can only be a good thing,” he concluded. The proposed legislation stipulates that all venues accommodating over 200 individuals—such as nightclubs, churches, and concert halls—will be legally obligated to establish a plan for responding to an attack on their premises. This also includes providing staff training on “simple and low cost” procedures, such as identifying secure exit routes and securing doors and windows. Establishments with a capacity exceeding 800 people will be subject to more stringent requirements, which encompass measures like the installation of CCTV or the deployment of security personnel.