Christopher BarrettAfter MPs voted to approve the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill, otherwise known as Martyn’s Law, at its second reading in Parliament yesterday, the live music industry has called for more consideration of the impact it could have on independent festivals.
Home secretary Yvette Cooper began the debate by saying that the Bill had the wholehearted support of the Prime Minister and the leader of the opposition. She went on to say that Martyn’s Law should balance protection of life with protecting our way of life: “Doing nothing is, in my view, not an option. Equally, the Protect Duty must not be so prescriptive as to prevent people enjoying a normal life.”
Reacting to ministerial comments during the reading, Jon Collins, CEO of live music industry body LIVE, said that while the federation of 15 live music industry associations was pleased to see the impact the legislation could have on venues being recognised, LIVE believes those concerns should extend to independent festivals.
“The minister made clear that we have time to ensure the provisions in this Bill land properly,” said Collins. “We will be working with MPs on the Bill committee and the Home Office team to try and strengthen this legislation wherever possible”.
LIVE (Live music Industry Venues & Entertainment) represents more than 3,000 businesses, 35,000 artists and 2,000 backstage workers.
While Figen Murray OBE, who has campaigned for the legislation since the death of her son Martyn in the Manchester Arena attack in 2017, recently spoke to Access All Areas of her hope that the legislation would be signed off by the King early next year, it is understood that the process will take considerably longer.
Access has been informed that the second reading of the Bill is likely to be followed by six to nine months of further consideration in both the House of Commons and House of Lords prior to Royal Assent. The live events industry and venue operators will then have around two years working with the Home Office on the guidance and workings of the inspectorate, meaning a go-live date for Martyn’s Law is expected to be no earlier than mid to late 2027.
Murray was in the House of Commons gallery during the reading, and was described by Cooper as a “true inspiration”. She said, “I cannot imagine Figen’s pain and I am in awe of her courage. To suffer such a horrendous loss and somehow find the strength to fight for changes that will help others is heroic.”
Reacting to the Bill’s second reading, NTIA CEO Michael Kill said, “While we recognise the challenges surrounding security provision and the associated costs, issues that are always at the forefront of our members’ minds, our unwavering belief is that safety must remain paramount. We are prepared to work collaboratively with all stakeholders to navigate these challenges effectively.”
A transcription of the debate can be read in full here.