SIA heralds “strength of engagement” on Martyn’s Law consultation

The SIA is the regulator for the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, otherwise known as Martyn’s Law, which is expected to come into force from spring 2027. The breadth of engagement with the consultation reflects the importance of the legislation and the commitment of individuals and organisations across the UK to help in keeping members of the public safe.

Martyn’s Law – named in memory of Martyn Hett, who was one of those individuals killed in the Manchester Arena terror attack – aims to keep people safe by ensuring that publicly accessible premises and events are better prepared for (and protected against) the consequences of a terrorist attack.

Consultation focus 

The consultation focused on the SIA’s draft Section 12 guidance, which explains how the SIA plans to operate as the regulator, taking a supportive, proportionate and risk-based approach when it comes to using its powers.

The guidance set out how the SIA will help people comply with the law, use its powers to obtain information and carry out inspections and address non-compliance (including when the regulator may use enforcement powers and how financial penalties will be set).

The feedback and insights gathered throughout this process will help to make the final guidance as clear as possible. The SIA plans to publish its final Section 12 guidance and a full consultation report towards the end of this year.

While Martyn’s Law is not expected to come into force until the early stages of 2027, the SIA is encouraging all those who may be in scope to begin considering how the legislation will affect them.

Further resources 

Further resources and information on Martyn’s Law, its scope and how to comply can be found in the Home Office guidance and on Protect UK.

In order to remain updated on the SIA’s work as the regulator for Martyn's Law, interested parties can sign up to the dedicated mailing list and receive the latest information and invitations to future engagement opportunities.

Laura Gibb, executive director for Martyn’s Law at the SIA, concluded: “We are grateful to all those who took the time to contribute to this consultation and have been encouraged by the strength of engagement throughout the process. The feedback gathered will help us to ensure the final guidance meets the needs of those it’s intended to support ahead of publication later this year.”