S12 Group responds to Home Office consultation on Manchester Arena Inquiry

The consultation focuses on two key recommendations for the sector: to review whether in-house CCTV operators should be licensed (MR7) and to consider whether contractors who carry out security services should be licensed (MR8).

It was noted that two CCTV operators working at Manchester Arena at the time of the devastating terror attack in 2017 had different levels of vetting and training. One was a contractor and required to hold a Security Industry Authority (SIA) licence, while the other was operating in an in-house capacity and, therefore, exempt from licensing.

As well as potential licensing for CCTV operators, the report asks whether the same logic should also apply to other in-house operatives, including close protection, security guarding and Cash-in-Transit personnel.

At the same time, the current regime does not allow the SIA to maintain appropriate oversight of security companies or individuals who lead them, nor does it have the necessary tools – under the Private Security Industry Act 2001 – to take enforcement action.

The S12 Group fully supports the introduction of mandatory business licensing, but any changes must be proportionate, viable and workable for the industry.

Additional powers

In the letter, S12 Group chair Paul Evans states: “While fully in support of both proposals, we also believe that firm consideration should be given to awarding the industry regulator, the Security Industry Authority, additional powers, most notably those that relate to the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000.”

Evans continues: “The S12 Group would support any move that further enhances the performance of the SIA. It’s clear, based on levels of organised crime and corruption observed, that such powers would offer even more protection for the public.”

Further, Evans notes: “Representing companies that account for broadly one-third of all security officers, we also wish to offer the SIA and the Home Office the potential of using the S12 as a ‘testbed’ for the new legislation if successfully taken through the relevant and appropriate channels.”

The S12 Group now awaits the results of the formal consultation process.

*Further information is available online at www.securityleaders.co.uk