The bill supporting the much-anticipated Martyn’s Law, which would tighten security at public venues big and small, has been made public.
Security minister Tom Tugendhat said he was “pleased” to announce the publication of the bill, to be known officially as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises).
It is a “massive step in the right direction”, the mother of a Manchester Arena bombing victim has said.
Under the legislation, authorities must have proactive action plans against terror attacks including training staff in minimising the harm to staff and public.
The law would affect businesses of all sizes.
Martyn’s Law will follow a tiered model linked to the type of activity taking place and the size of the expected audience.
While there will be fines for non-compliance, those drafting the legislation do not want to put an unfair or punitive financial burdens on businesses.
For instance, a standard tier will apply to locations with a maximum capacity of more than 100 people.
Venues will need to undertake measures such as training, information sharing, and completion of a preparedness plan.
Martyn Hett was among 22 people killed in the 2017 atrocity in Manchester.
His mother Figen Murray, who campaigned for the new rules and pictured with Home Secretary Suella Braverman and Mr Tugendhat, said: “Today is a big day for me. This has been a long time coming but I have learned to be patient.
“I know it will be go before a select committee and then be debated by both houses. But this is a massive step for us.”
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who spoke to Mrs Murray late last year, is committed to deliver the law “to honour Martyn’s memory and all of those affected by terrorism”.