A keynote from Figen Murray OBE, the leader behind Martyn’s Law, opened the Meetings Industry Association’s (mia) latest Connect Day in Manchester.
The mia’s Connect Day provides a platform for venues and agencies to gain insight about current topics, challenges and changes within the meetings and events industry. The 2023 event took place on 12 December at Emirates Old Trafford.
The mother of Martyn Hett, who at 29 years old was tragically killed in the terrorist attack at Manchester Arena in May 2017, shared her son’s story and how she’s remaining firmly focussed on driving positive change following the tragedy.
Giving an update on the status of Martyn’s Law (Protect Duty) that was highlighted in the King’s November speech, Murray called upon the business meetings and events sector “to act now.”
A further public consultation will be taking place for ‘standard tier’ venues with a capacity of 100-799, before a second reading of the bill in Parliament is set to take place ahead of the seventh anniversary.
Murray encouraged the sector to “establish Counter Terrorism plans and conduct risk assessments as well as utilise the resources and certified courses available on the Protect UK website.” Although venues with a capacity of under 100 are exempt from the new legislation, she suggested they follow the ‘standard tier’ guidelines as best practice.
Sharing a case study example of the work that has already been taken by the sector, Manchester Central’s chief executive Shaun Hinds offered other practical guidance on implementing Martyn’s Law.
Sandra Eyre, business development director, the mia, said: “While extremely poignant, Figen Murray’s determination to drive positive change from a tragedy is truly inspirational. The mia will be continuing to support Figen in her quest for adoption by sharing best practice guidance.”
